After Nine Days of Devastating Flood, Nepalese Crews Save Two Trishuli Project Employees

KATHMANDU – The relentless search that started nine days after the severe flooding in the Trishuli River basin achieved a significant milestone on Friday when two workers were rescued from the Upper Trishuli 3A power project tunnel.

The rescued workers were identified as Kabir Maharjan, a 45‑year‑old automation supervisor from Kathmandu, and Sanjay Sah, a 30‑year‑old foreman originating from Saptari.

Both men were evacuated by helicopter to a medical facility in Kathmandu, where they were treated and reported to be in stable condition. Sanjay was extracted first, followed closely by Kabir.

Rescuers said that faint calls for help were heard inside the tunnel, prompting a rapid response from the Nepal Army and Armed Police Force. They were joined by a specialist team from China, and together they mobilized five excavators, compressors, and hydraulic breakers to break through debris.

A sizeable rock formation blocking the tunnel had to be removed. Controlled blasting was employed to dislodge the obstacle, creating a clear corridor for the rescue team to reach the trapped personnel.

The flood that began on 26 August was one of the worst in recent history, with the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Authority reporting at least 1,252 fatalities and more than 5,000 people missing as of the previous evening. The disaster also caused extensive damage to the 60‑megawatt Upper Trishuli 3A plant, multiple other hydroelectric projects, and vital road links, leaving rescue teams to continue searching for any other individuals who may still be trapped underground.