Two Trapped Workers Pulled Alive from Nepal Hydropower Tunnel

Two people were rescued alive on Friday from a tunnel connected to a hydropower project on Nepal’s Trishuli River, nine days after a massive collapse of ice, rocks and mud swept through the valley, killing more than 1,200 people and displacing tens of thousands.

The two workers rescued from the Upper Trishuli 3A Hydropower Station were identified as Sanjay Sah, a mechanical foreman, and Kabir Maharjan, a mechanical supervisor, according to a statement from the office of Energy Minister Biraj Bhakta Shrestha.

Officials and rescue teams believe the August 26 collapse of a glacier in the upper Trishuli River region trapped at least 900 people inside tunnels associated with six hydropower projects along the river.

Maharjan is unable to move his hands and legs, while Sah's injuries are not considered critical, an aide to the energy minister told Reuters. Both men are being transported to a hospital in Kathmandu for treatment.

Amir Maharjan, Kabir’s brother, said the family had not yet received official confirmation but had been asked to go to the hospital.

“I have been hearing from the news that my brother has been found. The entire family is very happy,” Amir said.