The rescue of people trapped inside the tunnel of the Trishuli 3A Hydropower Project has begun.
So far, two people have been pulled out of the tunnel alive.
The rescued men are Sanjay Sah from Saptari and Kabir Maharjan from Balkumari, Lalitpur – both employees of the Nepal Electricity Authority (NEA). After receiving first aid, they were airlifted to Birendra Hospital in Chhauni, Kathmandu, for further treatment.
Rescue efforts are continuing for others who may still be trapped inside. Rescue personnel have entered the tunnel for the operation. The team includes personnel from the Nepal Army, Armed Police Force, and Nepal Electricity Authority.
According to information provided by Home Minister Sudan Gurung’s secretariat, a Nepal Army team, accompanied by NEA Electrical Supervisor Sanjog KC, has proceeded toward the powerhouse to rescue additional people.
However, conditions inside the tunnel are difficult for rescue operations. Rescuers have to crawl for about 60 meters through the tunnel. Beyond that point, they say, there is enough space to move in a crouched position.
There is currently no direct communication between the rescuers advancing toward the powerhouse and those outside the tunnel. Walkie-talkies do not work inside.
Rescuers have to crawl approximately 60 meters while they pull those trapped out of the tunnel.
Meanwhile, another body has just been recovered from the tunnel.
Some relatives of those trapped, along with local residents, have gathered at the site. People gathered there have also been allowed to view those brought out of the tunnel to help with identification.
