Photo: Screenshot from CMG

Affected by continuous downpours since Saturday, hundreds of people have been stranded in Dinggye County, Southwest China's Xizang Autonomous Region, following several severe landslides and mudslides that have halted power and communications. Emergency telecommunications had resumed in disaster-stricken areas as of midnight on Tuesday. So far, 130 remain trapped with road unblocking efforts continuing. A local government official confirmed with the Global Times on Wednesday that there have been no casualties.

As a result of continuous heavy rainfall since Saturday, many sections of a major highway leading to a remote town in Dinggye County were either washed away by floods or blocked by landslides, according to state broadcaster CCTV.

Power and communications were shut down in the affected areas, with tourists and local residents left stranded, CCTV reported.

Local authorities confirmed to CCTV that although road unclogging operations are still ongoing, as of midnight on Tuesday, communications had been restored in the disaster-stricken area.

CCTV also reported that 342 have been safely transferred to Dinggye County and other nearby towns. 

There are still more than 130 people who are temporarily stuck in the area, according to CCTV.

The Global Times learned from a local official surnamed Li that rescue attempts are comparatively challenging due to the severe destruction of roads, coupled with the fact that rain has continued.

According to Li, the government is currently devising a thorough rescue plan while also making every effort to allocate personnel and supplies needed to complete the rescue operation.

The Global Times also learned from the Li that the government had prepared enough food and raincoats, and that the trapped individuals and rescuers are now well equipped with supplies and rescue tools. 

Li told the Global Times that there have been no casualties so far.

According to the weather forecast, the affected areas will see moderate to severe rainfall starting on Tuesday night and lasting until Thursday. 

In this regard, Li explained to the Global Times that the government is working with the fire and public safety departments to safeguard the safety of locals and tourists.

If it starts to rain heavily, they will halt the rescue efforts and resume once the rain stops, he said.

Li Yawei contributed to this story