Rescue Efforts Ongoing in Nepal Following Catastrophic Floods

Emergency teams in Nepal successfully rescued two workers from a hydropower tunnel on Friday. This marks a significant development in ongoing efforts to reach additional individuals still trapped inside. The rescue took place at the Trishuli 3A tunnel, nine days after flooding devastated the region due to a likely glacier collapse.

According to officials, the two rescued men are identified as a mechanical foreman and a mechanical supervisor. Their escape followed confirmation of trapped voices within the tunnel earlier that morning.

Both rescued workers are in stable condition and were transported to a Kathmandu hospital for further treatment.

Family members expressed relief and gratitude for the successful rescues. Amir Maharjan, brother of one of the rescued workers, Kabir Maharjan, shared feelings of gratitude. His family had experienced significant distress during the workers’ confinement.

The emergency rescue operation continues as officials estimate approximately 115 workers might still be inside the tunnel. Moreover, overall estimates suggest at least 557 workers, linked to the Trishuli 3A project, remain missing. Broader figures indicate around 900 workers from 12 hydropower projects across the nation remain unaccounted for, with about 500 potentially trapped in tunnels.

Communication Minister Bikram Timilsina remained hopeful of further rescues and reported ongoing efforts to free more people. Officials emphasized their determination to continue search efforts.

Overall, the natural disaster tragically claimed at least 1,259 lives, leaving over 5,000 people missing. On the Tibet side of the border, China reported 21 casualties and 541 missing persons.