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Rescue efforts have been intensified to evacuate employees, technicians and civilians reportedly trapped inside the tunnel of the Trishuli 3A Hydropower Project in Rasuwa following the devastating flood.

The government has stepped up efforts to open the entrance of the tunnel since early Saturday morning. After receiving information that people were trapped inside the tunnel, authorities mobilized rescue teams on a priority basis and began clearing mud, debris and other obstructions blocking the tunnel entrance.

The rescue operation is focused on clearing the accumulated debris and opening access to the tunnel so that rescuers can reach those believed to be trapped inside.

Indian rescue team reaches Trishuli

Meanwhile, an Indian rescue team deployed to assist Nepal in the disaster response has also reached the Trishuli area.

The Indian team is conducting an initial aerial reconnaissance of the Chilime and Langtang areas by helicopter. Based on the assessment, the team plans to expand its rescue operations and provide assistance at locations where specialized rescue support is required.

The arrival of the Indian team comes as Nepal continues search and rescue operations across areas affected by the Bhotekoshi flood.

82-member Nepali security team deployed

A joint Nepali security team has been continuously working to clear the tunnel entrance and accelerate the search operation.

Since Friday night, 62 personnel from the Nepali Army and 20 personnel from the Armed Police Force and Nepal Police have been deployed at the site, bringing the total strength of the joint rescue team to 82.

The team has been working to remove mud and debris accumulated around the tunnel entrance and create a passage toward the trapped section.

However, rescue operations have been severely complicated by adverse weather conditions in the area. Poor weather is making access, helicopter operations and debris-clearing efforts more difficult.

Authorities are continuing the operation with priority given to reaching those inside the tunnel as quickly as possible.