Workers Trapped in Hydropower Plant Tunnel in Nepal

Last Wednesday (26), the collapse of a glacier near Langtang Lirung peak in Nepal triggered an avalanche that struck the Lhende Khola river, generating a wave of mud, rocks, and ice that traveled over 20 kilometers. The torrent blocked the river's course, destroying villages, roads, bridges, and power facilities, and leaving at least 1,318 dead and 5,624 missing on the China-Nepal border.

Workers Trapped in Hydropower Plant Tunnel

The disaster struck the Trishul 3A hydropower plant, where a tunnel over four kilometers long was under construction when the flood occurred. According to local authorities, dozens of workers were trapped inside the tunnel as water and sediment accumulated, blocking the exit.

Dramatic Rescue and Survivors

A dramatic breakthrough occurred when, nine days after the flood, rescue teams managed to pull two men from the tunnel. The first survivor was extracted during an operation led by the Nepali Army, and shortly after, a parliamentarian stated that a second worker was also rescued alive. Images show one of the workers covered in mud being carried on the shoulders of a rescuer. Medical teams provided on-site care, and both were taken to a hospital in Kathmandu.

Hope for More Rescues

Nepal's Energy Minister, Biraj Bhakta Shrestha, told the British broadcaster BBC that he hopes more people will be rescued in the coming hours, as he believes others may still be alive inside the tunnel. Meanwhile, authorities continue to search for 42 workers who have not yet been located in the plant's tunnel.

International Impact and Rescue Challenges

Among the trapped workers are foreigners from China, South Korea, and India. Indian Army Colonel Parikshit Mehra highlighted that in the first 48 hours after the blockage, the situation is most critical, as those trapped panic and can become disoriented after 24 to 25 hours of darkness. He added that, despite the difficulties, “miracles happen.”

Impact of the Torrent in the Border Region

The Gyirong border post in Tibet was one of the most affected areas. Security camera footage captured the force of the torrent, which swept away buildings and people. The site is an important commercial link between China and Nepal, and the destruction of infrastructure could have significant economic and social impacts on the region.

With information from G1, CNN Brasil.