Trishuli-3A Tunnel Rescue to Continue Overnight

Rescue teams are preparing to work through the night to reach workers believed to be trapped inside an underground tunnel at the Trishuli-3A hydropower project.

The operation has entered a critical phase after rescuers located a cable access tunnel that could potentially provide a route to the trapped workers. However, teams have not yet been able to enter the tunnel, and no confirmed signs have been detected from inside.

A source at the rescue site said excavation would continue overnight to create an access route for rescuers.

Excavation and oxygen supply to continue

The rescue team plans to continue digging while also sending ventilation and oxygen into the tunnel.

Rescuers are also working to create a narrow crawl-through passage that could allow them to move above the tunnel slab and reach the upper section of the duct.

The team hopes to use this route to inspect conditions inside and determine whether it can provide a safe way to reach the trapped workers.

If an access route cannot be established through excavation, the team has also prepared a plan to use a controlled explosion early Sunday morning to open the tunnel entrance.

The operation involves the Nepali Army, Nepal Electricity Authority personnel and tunnel specialists. Lawmaker and tunnel expert Shriram Neupane is coordinating the rescue effort from the site.

Five holes drilled to send air inside

Rescuers have already drilled five holes into the structure in an attempt to send air into the underground area.

According to the Nepal Electricity Authority, the rescue operation began on Friday, two days after the flooding affected the project.

The delay and continuing difficulty in reaching the tunnel have increased concern about the condition of those trapped underground.

The authority estimates that around 40 to 42 technical personnel, including highly experienced specialists, were working on an overhaul of the underground powerhouse when they became trapped.

Rescue teams are now working around the clock to establish a safe route into the tunnel and determine the condition of the workers.