ISLAMABAD (PEN) : Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has expressed heartfelt condolences to the government and people of China following devastating landslides in Guizhou province that left at least four people dead and 17 others missing.
In a message shared on social media platform X, the prime minister conveyed Pakistan’s solidarity with China during this difficult time. He offered prayers for the victims and expressed hope for the safe recovery of those still unaccounted for.
“Pakistan stands with China in this time of tragedy,” PM Shehbaz stated.
Deadly Landslides Strike Guizhou
According to Chinese state media, the landslides were triggered by heavy rainfall in the mountainous regions of Guizhou on Thursday. The first incident occurred around 3:00 am local time in Changshi township, Dafang County, followed by a second landslide in Guowa township just hours later.
A total of 19 individuals from eight households were initially reported trapped. Rescue operations are ongoing, with hundreds of personnel — including military units and firefighters — mobilised to aid in the search and recovery efforts. However, authorities described the terrain as “high and steep,” complicating rescue activities.
Emergency Response and Climate Concerns
In response to the disaster, Chinese authorities activated a Level II emergency response, the country’s second-highest alert for geological hazards. The Ministry of Natural Resources has dispatched a dedicated team to oversee operations on the ground, while the Ministry of Emergency Management has urged rescuers to make “every possible effort.”
Warnings have also been issued for potential geological hazards in nearby provinces, including Hunan and Jiangxi, which are currently facing severe weather conditions of their own.
The latest disaster comes amid a rise in extreme weather events across China. Authorities attribute the growing frequency of heavy rains, flooding, and heatwaves to climate change. Last year was marked as the hottest on record in over six decades, and the country continues to battle environmental challenges with increased urgency.
Just last week, torrential rains in the Guangdong and Guangxi regions led to seven fatalities and several missing persons.
