Nepal Hydropower Project Flooded; 9 Korean Workers Missing, 90% of Facilities Lost

A catastrophic flood has devastated the construction site of the Upper Trishuli-1 hydropower project in Nepal, a joint venture involving Doosan Enerbility and Korea South-East Power (KOSEP). The deluge, which struck on August 26th, has led to the loss of over 90% of the project's above-ground facilities and a base camp housing workers. Critically, nine Korean workers have lost contact, prompting an urgent search and rescue operation.

KOSEP has mobilized an emergency response team, led by Yoon Jang-hyun, head of its new growth division, to the site. "Upon arriving at the scene, we will focus on assessing the situation and conducting the search to do our utmost for the safe return of our employees," Yoon stated before departing from Incheon International Airport. The team is collaborating with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs' rapid response team, the Nepalese government, and local partners to locate the missing personnel.

Of the seven KOSEP employees dispatched to Nepal, three are currently unaccounted for, while the other four in Kathmandu are confirmed safe. The project, with an installed capacity of 216 MW, was approximately 84% complete at the time of the incident. Fortunately, initial reports indicate that the underground power station has not been buried by the floodwaters.

KOSEP is maintaining close communication with the families of the affected employees, some of whom are residing in Nepal. The company has pledged to provide full support, including travel and accommodation, should any family members in Korea wish to travel to Nepal. Back at its headquarters in Jinju, KOSEP has established an emergency response center to manage the crisis and provide support from South Korea.