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Photo courtesy: Minister of Energy, Water Resources, and Irrigation Biraj Bhakta Shrestha Secretariat

Minister of Energy, Water Resources, and Irrigation Biraj Bhakta Shrestha has stated that rescue teams are working to reach the tunnels of various hydropower projects in Rasuwa by tonight to rescue workers, staff, and locals trapped inside following the flood.

Speaking at a meeting with the families of those trapped inside the tunnels at the ministry on Saturday, Minister Shrestha said there is a possibility of reaching the tunnels by the end of Saturday.

According to Minister Shrestha, a dedicated helicopter has been deployed since Friday for the rescue operation. Search and rescue efforts and work to clear tunnel openings have continued through the night.

“We have not stopped work at night either. If we stop at night, hope dies. To ensure we can reach them regardless of the situation, we are maintaining continuity, whether by working half shifts or taking turns,” he said.

Minister Shrestha said high-level expert officials from the Nepal Electricity Authority (NEA) and the ministry have been deployed for search and rescue operations. He said the tactical office in Nuwakot is actively coordinating the operation, with a senior-level management team in Nuwakot and another senior-level team in Rasuwa.

He said the ministry remains committed to providing the necessary resources, equipment, and coordination for the rescue operation.

According to Minister Shrestha, saving the lives of citizens trapped inside the tunnels is the government’s top priority. Efforts are also underway to supply oxygen inside the tunnels through available means before the rescue operation reaches them.

“We are trying to deliver oxygen inside the tunnels through some medium before the rescue takes place. Once rescued, they can be admitted to hospitals. They must first remain alive. For that, we are trying to see if oxygen can be delivered through a pipe,” he said.

Minister Shrestha also committed to providing regular official information to the families of those trapped.

During the meeting, the families raised three demands: prompt information on whether those trapped inside the tunnels are alive or deceased, arrangements including oxygen supplies to help sustain those inside the tunnels, and provision of whatever equipment is necessary for the rescue operation.

The Rasuwa flood has damaged 12 hydropower projects, while more than 500 workers, staff, and locals are trapped inside the tunnels of various hydropower projects.