Nepal Flood: Rescue Efforts Underway for Those Trapped in Trishuli 3A Hydroelectric Project Tunnel
Photo Credit: Shriram Neupane
On Tuesday afternoon, engineer and tunnel expert Shriram Neupane spoke with BBC News Nepali regarding the ongoing rescue operations for those trapped in the Trishuli 3A Hydroelectric Project tunnel. The rescue teams include members of the Nepal Army, the Electricity Authority, and other rescue workers.
Neupane is engaged as a specialist in the rescue efforts.
He shared detailed information about the situation with Sanjay Dhakal of BBC News Nepali.
Challenges from River-Borne Debris and Large Rocks
Photo Credit: Shriram Neupane
The biggest obstacle so far has been the accumulation of debris — consisting of stones, soil, and sand — piled 30 meters to the side and 20 to 30 meters at the tunnel’s entrance, brought by river flooding.
There are also large rocks measuring 5 meters long, 4 meters wide, and 3 meters high obstructing progress.
To date, the team has blasted four such large rocks and is currently breaking apart a fifth. They continue to clear away sand and debris.
While the path to the tunnel entrance has already been opened, these massive rocks must be removed before equipment can be moved inside to remove the debris further within the tunnel.
Currently, the operation is focused on clearing the area in front of the tunnel entrance. Excavation to remove debris inside the tunnel will begin by this evening.
Initially, attempts were made to enter the tunnel by descending from a point 24 meters above, but that section was found to be completely filled with sand and debris.
Therefore, preparations are now underway to enter starting from the tunnel entrance.
Photo Credit: Shriram Neupane
Tunnel Entrance Initially Blocked by Wooden Logs
Photo Credit: Shriram Neupane
Inspections so far have revealed that the tunnel entrance is blocked primarily by mud and sand.
Wooden supports and blockages placed earlier have been removed.
Although wooden obstructions were found at the entrance, it is estimated that there are no large rocks inside—only sand and debris—but it is completely filled.
Once the mud and debris are cleared from the tunnel entrance up to 160 meters inside, the powerhouse will be reached.
According to technical drawings, there is a secure area at the upper part of the powerhouse where people can safely stay.
Although the entire 160-meter path inside the tunnel may not be completely safe, it is believed that people are seeking refuge and there might be a safe spot above the crown of the powerhouse.
It is estimated that there could be 40 to 45 individuals inside.
(Shriram Neupane is the former chief of the Nagdhunga Tunnel Route Project and a Rastriya Swatantra Party Member of Parliament elected from Tanahu.)