Rescue Efforts Underway as Dozens Still Missing in Damaged Tunnels

Sep 01, Kathmandu - Following catastrophic floods caused by the rising waters of the Bhote Koshi and Trishuli rivers, significant damage has been inflicted on hydropower projects across Nepal. Authorities fear that hundreds of workers remain trapped inside the tunnels of affected dams and powerhouses.

Kulman Ghising, a former executive director of the Nepal Electricity Authority and an expert in the hydropower sector, emphasized that rescue efforts should not be limited to search along the accessible routes. He cautioned that many workers could be safely sheltered within the structures of the powerhouses inside the tunnels.

According to Ghising, approximately 12 workers are believed to be trapped at the Rasuwagadhi Hydropower Plant, six at Chilime, and around 25 at the Langtang project. Additionally, about 300 people are reported missing inside the tunnels of the under-construction Upper Trishuli-1 project, with 20-25 technicians and staff affected at the Trishuli-3A. There is also concern that individuals may be trapped within the Trishuli-3B project.

Potential Shelter Inside Powerhouse Structures

Ghising explained that the tunnels of hydropower projects contain large structures of the powerhouses, where workers and technicians typically stay. Therefore, the absence of people on the main access routes does not necessarily mean all are safe. He suggested that some workers might have reached the upper sections of the powerhouses to escape the floodwaters and could still be alive if they had access to oxygen.

Challenges in Rescue Operations

Despite ongoing efforts, rescue teams have yet to reach all potentially trapped individuals. The main hurdles include clearing debris, removing obstructions, and pumping out accumulated water from within the tunnels.

Ghising urged the immediate involvement of experienced project managers and technical personnel who have previously worked on these projects. Their expertise could facilitate quicker decision-making regarding structural risks and rescue strategies.

He also stressed the need for deploying specialized equipment urgently, including excavators, water pumps, and generators, with support from foreign rescue experts. Removing debris and water blockage inside the tunnels is critical to advancing rescue operations.

Urgency and Strategic Response Needed

Ghising emphasized that rescue efforts must be intensified and well-coordinated, as the possibility remains that survivors are trapped inside the tunnels. He underlined that every moment counts in saving lives amid this crisis.