BYD, the renowned electric vehicle and battery manufacturer, has announced a significant donation of 10 million yuan (approximately $1.4 million USD) to support relief efforts in the Gonggyeling County (Jilong County) disaster area in Tibet. The contribution comes in response to a devastating mudslide originating on the Nepal side of the border, which caused severe casualties and numerous disappearances at the Jilong Port.
Disaster Strikes Jilong County
The incident occurred on August 26th, triggered by a massive mudslide in Nepal. The resulting disaster had a profound impact on the Jilong Port in Tibet’s Xigaze City, leading to substantial loss of life and many individuals unaccounted for. In the wake of the catastrophe, China’s National Disaster Reduction and Relief Committee and the Ministry of Emergency Management promptly activated a Level II national disaster relief response.
BYD Steps Up with Generous Support
The gravity of the situation has deeply concerned BYD. Through its BYD Charity Foundation, the company has pledged 10 million yuan in cash to the China Charity Federation. These funds are earmarked for critical emergency rescue operations, the transitional resettlement of affected residents, and the long-term recovery and reconstruction of the disaster-stricken region.
A spokesperson for BYD stated, “BYD will continue to pay close attention to the rescue progress and stand with the people in the disaster-stricken areas to overcome difficulties together.” This commitment underscores the company’s dedication to social responsibility and its solidarity with those affected by the tragedy.
Ongoing Rescue and Relief Efforts
As of 8:00 AM on August 27th, preliminary reports indicated that 2 individuals from Resuo Village had been successfully rescued. Tragically, 3 fatalities had been identified, and 558 people remained missing. Among the missing are 260 foreign nationals, highlighting the international dimension of the disaster. Xigaze City has responded by initiating a Level I natural disaster relief emergency response and establishing a front-line command center. This command center is coordinating various professional forces to conduct thorough search and rescue operations, provide for the displaced population, and ensure the necessary material support is available. The rescue and relief work is currently progressing in an active and orderly manner.
BYD’s swift and substantial donation demonstrates the significant role that corporations can play in disaster relief. The company’s support will be instrumental in providing immediate aid and contributing to the long-term rebuilding of the Jilong County community.
