On July 18, it was reported that following the mountain collapse disaster in Pengshui County, Chongqing, the Ministry of Natural Resources activated its emergency command mechanism for geological disaster prevention and response on the 17th. The ministry mobilized over 120 experts from the natural resources system, including academicians, to the site to assist with emergency rescue operations, urgent surveying and mapping, and investigation and monitoring.
At the disaster site, an expert team organized by the Ministry of Natural Resources delineated safe zones for the rescue operations and established emergency escape routes for personnel. Preliminary analysis of the disaster's cause was conducted using remote sensing imagery, while technologies such as InSAR were employed to enhance deformation monitoring. Emergency monitoring and early warning systems were implemented, featuring a three-in-one "manual + equipment" approach at key upper, middle, and lower sections of the landslide mass. Equipment including crack meters and GNSS devices was installed to monitor the deformation trends of the mountain behind the disaster area in real-time. Robotic total stations and slope radar were used to monitor the middle and lower sections of the landslide, and drones were deployed for dynamic patrols of the affected area and its surroundings.
A comprehensive assessment was carried out, identifying an impact zone of approximately 50,000 square meters. All residents from 21 buildings within the potential risk area have been evacuated as a precaution. Preliminary investigations indicate the total volume of the collapsed material is about 18,000 cubic meters, with the largest single rock block among the debris measuring roughly 3,000 cubic meters.
Currently, hazardous rock masses remain at the top and on both sides of the collapse area. There is a significant risk of further instability under conditions of heavy rainfall. The Ministry of Natural Resources will continue to intensify monitoring efforts, issue timely warnings, and make every effort to ensure the safety of the search and rescue operations.