China closes Brahmaputra Canyon after incessant rainfall

Travellers, who plan to reach Tibet by driving down, cycling or walking are also warned of possible geological disasters along the Sichuan-Tibet Highway.

The scenic area of Brahmaputra Grand Canyon in Tibet, known as the world’s deepest canyon, has been temporarily closed to visitors due to safety concerns following incessant rainfall.

Villagers stand near debris as they wait for rescuers to work following a landslide in Gengdi village in southwestern China's Sichuan province on August 8. Continuous rainfall has blocked several road sections in Tibet. (AP file)

Continuous rainfall has blocked several road sections to the scenic area, and the area’s administration office announced that it has decided to close the area immediately.

Brahmaputra river in Tibet is known as Yarlung Zangbo. With a maximum depth of 6,009 metres, the Yarlung Zangbo Grand Canyon features a rich variety of unique species and plateau scenery.

Travellers, who plan to reach Tibet by driving down, cycling or walking are also warned of possible geological disasters along the Sichuan-Tibet Highway, a 2,400-km route serving as the main artery for visitors to enter Tibet, state- run Xinhua news agency reported today.

The 504-km-long Yarlung Zangbo River Grand Canyon is a national tourist attraction. The canyon, Potala Palace and Mt Qomolangma (Mt Everest) are considered Tibet’s three world- class tourist destinations.