- Flash floods triggered by an unprecedented deluge of ice, rock, mud, and debris have swamped hydropower projects in Nepal.
- Rescue efforts are focusing on hydroelectric project tunnels where workers may have survived after being cut off by flood waters and debris.
- At the Rasuwagadhi tunnel, 46 people are thought to be trapped in a room-like structure, and officials are confident they may still be alive because they have food and water.
- At the Upper Trishuli 3A facility, rescuers took almost six days to find the tunnels due to thick mud, but they are trying to break in because of a reported dry space inside.
- So far, 279 people have been rescued from hydropower projects, but at least 639 more are still missing, some believed trapped in tunnels.
- The overall death toll has reached 1,204 confirmed dead, with more than 4,200 still missing.
- Major rescue operations are under way at four hydropower projects, with two sites offering the strongest hope because of air inside the tunnels.
- Rescuers are using all available technology and international help, including from India, China, Korea, and Australia.
Rescue operations in Nepal are intensifying as authorities focus on hydropower project tunnels where they believe trapped workers may still be alive. Amhsu Kiran Shahi, a board member of the electricity authority, stated, “In Rasuwagadhi, we think 46 people are trapped in a room-like structure in the tunnel.”34
Rescue efforts have so far saved 279 individuals, but at least 639 remain missing, with many feared trapped in tunnels. “We are very confident that they must be alive after one week because they have food and water over there in the building,” Shahi added.
Major operations are underway at four hydropower projects, with the Rasuwagadhi facility being a key focus due to its accessibility. Shahi noted, “This is the only project where it’s possible to walk through the tunnel.”
The Upper Trishuli 3A facility also faced challenges, as it took rescue workers almost six days to locate the tunnels due to thick mud. Shahi expressed optimism, stating, “We are expecting [survivors] in there because we are told there is a dry space inside.”56
Authorities are utilizing all available technology and receiving assistance from international experts, including teams from India, China, and Australia, to enhance their rescue efforts.
At least 1,204 people have been confirmed dead in the floods, with more than 4,200 still missing as the situation remains dire.9
“At least 1,204 people are confirmed dead and more than 4,200 remain missing, while 279 have been rescued from hydropower projects. Rescuers are using technology and help from India, China, Korea, and Australia, focusing on tunnels with air pockets like at Rasuwagadhi and Upper Trishuli 3A.”
The Guardian
