Kathmandu, September 5, 2026 (Yes Punjab News)
Indian tunnel rescue teams are working alongside Nepalese authorities to clear blocked sections of the Chilime hydropower project and search for people who may remain trapped following the devastating flash floods that struck Nepal on August 26.
The specialised Indian teams on Friday carried out operations inside the Chilime tunnel and began creating a temporary track to facilitate the movement of heavy equipment towards the affected sections.
The project site, located near Syabrubesi village in Rasuwa district, was among the areas severely impacted by the flash floods.
Rescuers have established access inside the tunnel and are working to reach waterlogged and debris-filled portions. Safety ropes have been installed, while improvised floats and pumps are being used to help teams navigate sections where water and debris continue to hinder movement.
The operation is focused on making the affected areas safer and improving access so that additional equipment can be deployed and search operations intensified.
Indian medical teams comprising doctors and paramedics are also providing emergency medical assistance and humanitarian support to local residents affected or displaced by the floods.
Indian Ambassador to Nepal Naveen Srivastava said on X on Saturday that the Indian tunnel rescue team, working with the Nepali Army, had moved deeper into the Chilime tunnel and drained water from the affected sections. He said a temporary track was also being constructed to enable heavier equipment to reach the tunnel, while doctors accompanying the team organised a health camp for the local community.
India has so far rescued 166 Indian nationals and delivered relief material to Nepal, including medical and humanitarian supplies such as antibiotics, analgesics, surgical items, tarpaulins, sleeping bags, blankets and water purification tablets.
Indian tunnel rescue teams have also been deployed at the Chilime and Langtang hydropower project sites to clear debris and search for workers who may have been trapped.
A 19-member Indian DNA and forensic analysis team is also assisting Nepalese authorities with victim identification as search and recovery operations continue.
FOLLOW NOW
