Chilime tunnel rescue teams near final stage to reach trapped workers

Joint rescue teams from Nepal and India are entering the final stages of an operation to reach six workers believed to be trapped inside the Chilime hydropower tunnel. The rescue follows devastating flash floods that occurred on August 26, which killed approximately 1,400 people and left over 5,000 missing.

Rescuers have cleared approximately 150 metres of the roughly 220-metre tunnel and are now facing the final 50 metres to reach the powerhouse. The operation faces significant technical difficulties, including a negative slope, large boulders, and an inflow of water inside the tunnel. Teams are currently utilizing excavators, wheel loaders, and mud pumps to clear debris and manage water levels.

Nepali MP and engineer Sagar Dhakal noted that teams are working through the night to overcome obstructions, including a narrow section where the Nepali Army is performing manual excavation. Indian Ambassador to Nepal Naveen Srivastava confirmed that clearing work is expected to continue as teams push toward the powerhouse.