Nepal Intensifies Rescue Efforts for Workers Trapped in Hydropower Tunnels
KATHMANDU: Rescue teams in Nepal have intensified efforts to reach workers believed to be trapped inside hydropower project tunnels following devastating floods and landslides in the Himalayan region.
The rescue operation is focused on several hydropower sites in the affected areas, where tunnels and access routes have been blocked by mud, rocks and other debris. Heavy machinery and specialist teams are being used to clear the affected areas.
Rescue Teams Work to Reach Blocked Tunnels
The Nepali Army, Nepal Electricity Authority and technical specialists are working together to open access to the affected tunnels.
At the Upper Trishuli-3A Hydropower Project, rescuers have made progress in locating an access point to the blocked tunnel. Teams have also drilled openings to provide air and assess conditions inside. Cameras and oxygen equipment are being prepared as part of the rescue effort.
Officials estimate that dozens of technical workers may have been inside the underground facilities when the flooding occurred.
Operations Continue at Several Hydropower Projects
Search operations are also underway at other hydropower sites, including Trishuli-3B, Upper Trishuli-1, Chilime and Langtang.
Nepal Army officials said specialist teams have entered some tunnels to assess the situation. At Chilime and Upper Trishuli-1, rescuers have recovered bodies during their searches, while operations continue at other locations.
Chinese technical experts have also been assisting Nepali rescue teams at some sites because of the difficult conditions inside the tunnels.
Heavy Machinery Used in Rescue Operation
Access to the affected areas has been difficult because roads, bridges and tunnel entrances have been damaged or covered by debris.
The Nepali Army has transported excavators and other heavy equipment to affected locations, including by helicopter where necessary. The machinery is being used to remove mud and rocks and create safe access routes for rescue personnel.
Floods Cause Widespread Damage
The flooding has caused extensive damage across parts of Nepal, affecting settlements, roads, bridges and energy infrastructure. Rescue operations have been repeatedly complicated by difficult terrain, rainfall and the possibility of additional flooding and landslides.
Authorities are continuing search-and-rescue operations while also providing relief supplies and assistance to people affected by the disaster.
Rescue Efforts Remain a Priority
Officials say the immediate priority is to safely reach people who may still be inside the blocked tunnels and determine their condition.
With specialist teams, heavy machinery and technical equipment being deployed, rescue operations are expected to continue as authorities work to clear access routes and search the underground facilities.
