Nepal teams seek hundreds trapped in hydropower tunnels after deadly floods - The Jakarta Post
Published September 21, 2026
Nepal Rescue Teams Search for Hundreds Trapped in Hydropower Tunnels Following Severe Floods
Rescue operations are currently underway in Nepal as teams work tirelessly to locate hundreds of individuals who have become trapped in the tunnels of a hydropower project, following devastating floods that have swept through the region. The floods, which have resulted from heavy rainfall, have caused significant damage and disruption, leading to urgent efforts to rescue those who are still unaccounted for.
The incident occurred at the site of the Upper Trishuli-1 hydropower project, located approximately 75 kilometers (about 46 miles) northwest of Kathmandu. Reports indicate that the flooding was exacerbated by continuous rainfall that lasted for several days, leading to swollen rivers and landslides that have obstructed access to various areas.
According to local authorities, around 500 workers were present at the site when the floods struck. Initial estimates suggest that a significant number of these individuals may still be trapped within the extensive network of tunnels associated with the hydropower facility. Rescue teams, including the Nepal Army and local police, have been mobilized to conduct search and rescue operations, utilizing heavy machinery and specialized equipment to navigate the challenging terrain.
The Nepal Army has dispatched helicopters to aid in the rescue efforts, providing aerial support and assistance in reaching areas that are otherwise inaccessible due to landslides and flooding. As of the latest updates, teams have successfully rescued several individuals from the tunnels, but the situation remains critical as many are still missing.
Authorities have expressed concern over the safety of those trapped, as the conditions inside the tunnels could deteriorate rapidly due to rising water levels and the risk of further landslides. Search and rescue operations are being conducted around the clock, with teams working in shifts to ensure that every possible effort is made to locate and rescue those in distress.
The government of Nepal has also declared a state of emergency in the affected areas, mobilizing additional resources to support the rescue operations. Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal has emphasized the need for a coordinated response to the disaster, urging all relevant agencies to work together to ensure the safety of those trapped and to provide support to the affected communities.
In addition to the rescue efforts, local authorities are also focused on assessing the damage caused by the floods. Preliminary reports indicate that several homes and infrastructure have been severely impacted, leading to displacement of families and disruption of essential services. The government has pledged to provide assistance to those affected, including temporary shelter and supplies.
As the search and rescue operations continue, the situation remains fluid, with updates being provided regularly by local officials. The community is coming together to support the rescue teams, with volunteers offering food and supplies to those involved in the efforts. The resilience of the Nepali people is on display as they navigate this challenging situation, demonstrating solidarity in the face of adversity.
In light of this disaster, experts are reiterating the importance of disaster preparedness and response mechanisms in Nepal, which is prone to natural disasters such as floods and landslides. The need for improved infrastructure and early warning systems has been highlighted as critical to mitigating the impacts of such events in the future.
The Upper Trishuli-1 hydropower project is a significant initiative aimed at enhancing Nepal's energy capacity, contributing to the country's goal of increasing renewable energy production. However, the current situation underscores the challenges that come with large-scale infrastructure projects, particularly in regions vulnerable to natural disasters.
As rescue teams continue their efforts, the focus remains on ensuring the safety of those trapped and providing support to the affected communities. The coming days will be crucial as the situation develops, and the community remains hopeful for a positive outcome as search operations persist.
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