Rescue teams enter Upper Trishuli 3A tunnel as search continues

Rescuers have entered the tunnel at the flood-damaged powerhouse of Nepal’s Upper Trishuli-3A Hydropower Project, but debris deeper inside continues to block their progress.

A technical team that includes Nepali Army personnel cleared soil and rocks piled roughly 15 feet high at the tunnel entrance, allowing the search operation to move inside. The team is now working to remove additional debris and assess the condition of the tunnel.

Floodwater initially complicated the operation. After teams worked continuously, day and night, they drained the water that had accumulated inside, making it easier to advance. Authorities have also arranged equipment, supplies and food for the operation, while a budget and procurement process have been established through an SMT meeting.

The Nepal Electricity Authority is updating information on employees and workers who have made contact and those who remain unreachable. It has formed a committee to hear the concerns of their families and coordinate assistance. Some relatives of unaccounted-for workers have also been allowed to visit the damaged powerhouse site.

The project suffered extensive damage after flooding struck the Bhotekoshi River on August 26.