2 hrs ago
Indian, Nepali Teams Push Deeper Into Flood-Hit Chilime Tunnel
Flash floods hit parts of Nepal on August 26 and damaged the Chilime hydropower project.
Some parts of the project’s tunnel are filled with water and blocked by debris.
Indian and Nepali rescuers are working together to enter those areas safely.
They are pumping out water and using ropes and floats to move through the tunnel.
They are also building a temporary road so large rescue machines can get closer.
Teams are searching for workers who may still be trapped.
Indian doctors are treating people in nearby communities, while forensic experts are helping identify victims.
Reports say that either 166 or 169 Indian citizens have been rescued, showing that the reported total has changed.
Indian and Nepali rescue teams have moved deeper into the waterlogged Chilime hydropower tunnel in Nepal’s Rasuwa district.
Rescuers are draining water, clearing debris, installing safety ropes and creating a temporary track for heavy equipment.
Specialist teams are also searching for potentially trapped workers at the Chilime and Langtang hydropower project sites.
India has deployed 54 personnel, sent about 95 tonnes of relief supplies and provided medical and forensic assistance.
Reports differ on the number of Indian nationals rescued, citing either 166 or 169, while earlier information said 275 remained unaccounted for.
- Who
- Indian and Nepali rescue teams, including tunnel specialists, medical personnel and forensic experts.
- What
- They are draining water, clearing debris and preparing access to blocked sections of the Chilime hydropower tunnel while searching for potentially trapped workers.
- Where
- The Chilime hydropower project near Syabrubesi village in Nepal’s Rasuwa district; Indian teams are also working at the Langtang hydropower project.
- When
- The flash floods struck on August 26; tunnel operations were reported on Friday and Saturday.
- Why
- To make damaged sections safer and accessible, bring in heavy equipment, intensify searches and support communities affected by the floods.
Key facts
- Flood date
- August 26
- Rescue location
- Chilime hydropower project, near Syabrubesi village in Rasuwa district, Nepal
- Indian assistance personnel
- 54 personnel: 30 tunnel rescue experts, 19 forensic experts and five medical personnel
- Relief supplies
- About 95 tonnes delivered aboard seven aircraft
- Reported Indian nationals rescued
- 166 in one report and 169 in another
- Forensic assistance
- A 19-member DNA and forensic analysis team is helping identify victims
- Additional planned aid
- India plans to send forensic kits, Bailey bridges and other materials requested by Nepal
Quotes
Indian Ministry of External Affairs
India’s foreign ministry
“The Indian tunnel rescue team working alongside with Nepali Army dug deeper into Chilime tunnel yesterday draining out water. A temporary track is also being made to allow more heavy equipment to reach tunnel; and doctors with the team held a health camp for the local community.”
thehansindia.com
thestatesman.com
“We will continue to provide assistance as per the requirements of the Nepal government. In the coming days, we plan to send more forensic kits, Bailey bridges, and other materials that are requested by the Nepal government.”
thestatesman.com
Sources
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