Archive · 13 Sep 2026
India, Nepal Continue Rescue For Six Trapped Tunnel Workers
Six workers are believed to be stuck inside a tunnel in Nepal.
The tunnel is part of the Chilime hydropower project.
Rescue teams from India and Nepal are removing mud and debris.
They are using machines such as excavators, loaders and a Bobcat.
The teams have cleared about 70 metres of the tunnel.
The underground powerhouse is thought to be another 60 metres away.
Rescuers have not publicly confirmed contact with the workers.
Floods damaged many roads, bridges and hydropower projects in Nepal.
India is also sending supplies, experts and parts for a temporary bridge to help the country recover.
Six workers are believed to be trapped inside a tunnel at Nepal’s Chilime hydropower project.
Indian and Nepali teams cleared about 70 metres of mud and debris using heavy machinery.
The underground powerhouse is estimated to be about 60 metres farther down the tunnel.
Nepal’s Army built more than one kilometre of access road to transport rescue equipment.
India sent Bailey bridge components and additional relief, rescue and forensic support to Nepal.
- Who
- Six workers are believed to be trapped, while Indian and Nepali rescue teams, including the Nepal Army, are searching for them.
- What
- Teams are clearing mud and debris from the Chilime hydropower tunnel and supporting wider flood-rescue and recovery efforts.
- When
- The operation was continuing on September 13, after an update issued on September 12, 2026.
- Where
- The main rescue effort is at Nepal’s Chilime hydropower project; related work is also taking place at Upper Trishuli-3B and in Betrawati.
- Why
- The workers are believed to have been trapped after flash floods damaged hydropower infrastructure and filled tunnels with debris.
- Workers involved
- Six workers are believed to be trapped in the Chilime tunnel.
- Rescue progress
- Teams cleared about 70 metres farther into the tunnel.
- Estimated distance
- The underground powerhouse is estimated to be about 60 metres farther down the tunnel.
- Rescue equipment
- An excavator, loader and Bobcat were brought into the tunnel.
- Road access
- The Nepal Army constructed more than one kilometre of access road from Syafrubesi toward the tunnel.
- Contact status
- There has been no public confirmation that rescuers contacted the six workers.
- Indian assistance
- India sent more than 130 tonnes of relief material, 54 expert personnel and components for a 70-metre Bailey bridge.
