Kathmandu, Nepal – Rescuers have successfully rescued a second worker from the Trishul 3A hydropower tunnel, nine days after massive floods swept through the region. Lawmaker Shri Ram Neupane posted the update on his Facebook page shortly after the army’s spokesperson, Brig. Gen. Raja Ram Basnet, confirmed the first rescue.
The ongoing operation highlights the scale of the disaster: local authorities estimate that about 900 workers are missing from 12 hydropower projects across the country, with roughly 500 believed to be trapped inside tunnels.
Rescue effort continues
Both rescues were carried out by a joint team of Nepalese army personnel and specialized rescue units. The first worker was recovered earlier this week, and the second survivor was brought to the surface on Friday. Medical teams are assessing the rescued workers for injuries and providing necessary care.
Authorities continue to search for the remaining missing workers, employing drilling equipment, listening devices, and canine units to locate those still underground. Families of the missing have gathered at local community centers, receiving updates and support from government officials.
Impact on Nepal’s hydropower sector
Nepal’s rapid expansion of hydropower projects has been a cornerstone of its economic development strategy. However, the recent floods have exposed vulnerabilities in construction safety and emergency preparedness. Officials have pledged to review safety protocols and improve coordination among project developers, local governments, and rescue agencies.
While the rescue of the second worker brings a measure of relief, the broader tragedy underscores the need for stronger disaster‑response planning, especially as climate‑related extreme weather events become more frequent.
What’s next?
The government has urged the public to stay informed through official channels and to support relief efforts for affected families. Ongoing rescue operations are expected to continue throughout the coming weeks as teams work to locate and retrieve the remaining missing workers.
Original reporting: Alexandria, VA News – WTOP News — read the source article.
