The BBC has claimed that Chinese state media censored some of the most disturbing footage of the Gyirong Port disaster. But what does the broadcast record show?

The footage was broadcast by CGTN and seen by audiences in China and internationally. The original report remains available online. It was taken directly from the television transmission.

The broadcast record therefore contradicts the BBC’s assertion that the footage “had not been shown here on television screens" in China. The video captures the moment many people appear to have tragically lost their lives at Gyirong Port.

Social-media platforms, including Bilibili and Douyin, moderate graphic and distressing material. They may restrict or remove videos that breach their content rules. Western platforms also moderate graphic images of death and serious injury.

The BBC also reported: "There has been little footage of the floods themselves..."

Chinese television and digital media have shown extensive footage of the floods and their aftermath.

Reports have documented the destruction of Gyirong Port, the deaths and disappearances, the experiences of victims and rescuers and the continuing search operation.

Before-and-after images, aerial footage and reports from the disaster zone have clearly shown the scale of the devastation.

CGTN has written to the BBC seeking clarification of its reporting.

It also provided the BBC with the television report containing the footage.

The BBC’s claim has since been repeated by other international media outlets.