Glacial collapse near Nepal-China border kills 270, leaves over 1,500 missing

Why in news

A massive glacial collapse near the Nepal-China border triggered catastrophic flash floods and debris flows, killing over 270 people and highlighting climate-induced glacial instability.

Background

The event occurred near the Rasuwagadhi border crossing, causing a debris flow in the Lhende River in Tibet. The US Geological Survey confirmed the floods were caused by a glacial collapse rather than a seismic event.

Facts for Prelims

• PlaceRasuwagadhi: A border crossing point between Nepal and China.
• S&TGlacial collapse: Gravity-driven failure of glacier ice on mountain slopes, resulting in ice-rich avalanches or debris flows.
• FactOver 270 killed and 1,500 missing, including over 800 foreign tourists, in the Nepal-Tibet floods.

For Mains

Q. Discuss how climate change is increasing the frequency of glacial lake outburst floods (GLOFs) and their impact on Himalayan communities.

Dimensions to cover in your answer

• climate change impact
• infrastructure vulnerability
• disaster management strategies
• transboundary risk

Keywords: Glacial Lake Outburst Flood (GLOF) · Climate Change · Debris Flow · Hazard Mitigation · Cryosphere

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