Nepal's rescue teams face extreme challenges in reaching 900 missing hydropower workers trapped in flood-ravaged tunnels across 12 hydropower projects. The deadly flash floods have left over 1,000 dead and 4,400 missing, with rescue operations hindered by mud, debris, and unpredictable river changes.
Rescuers, including Nepali and Indian teams, are using helicopters, excavators, and pumps to access tunnels where hundreds of workers are believed trapped. Army engineers are blasting through debris to reach missing workers at sites like the Chilime hydropower plant, where at least eight are missing.
The death toll from the August 26 floods has surpassed 1,000, with officials warning that oxygen levels in tunnels are dropping, reducing chances of finding survivors. Rescue efforts continue despite challenging terrain, high floodwaters, and the risk of further flooding, as the focus remains on locating the 900 missing workers in damaged hydropower infrastructure.