Kathmandu, September 3
Search and rescue operations are continuing at the powerhouse site of the Upper Trishuli-3A Hydropower Project, which was severely affected by flooding.
According to the Ministry of Energy, Water Resources and Irrigation, a technical team including personnel from the Nepali Army has managed to enter the tunnel after clearing soil and rocks piled up to around 15 feet from the tunnel entrance.
However, the rescue team has encountered more debris deeper inside the tunnel and is continuing efforts to clear the passage and move further in. The team is also trying to assess the condition inside the tunnel as the search operation continues.
The ministry said the team had initially faced difficulties in draining water that had accumulated inside the tunnel following the flood. After working continuously day and night, the accumulated water has now been drained, making it easier for the rescue teams to advance further into the tunnel.
The ministry said special arrangements have also been made to ensure that the rescue operation does not face shortages of equipment, supplies or food.
A decision has been taken through the SMT meeting to arrange the necessary budget and manage the procurement, expenditure and records of materials required for the search and rescue operation.
Meanwhile, the Nepal Electricity Authority has decided to update the details of all employees and workers who have made contact as well as those who remain unreachable following the disaster.
A separate committee has also been formed under the coordination of the director of the Human Resources Department to listen to the concerns and grievances of families of employees and workers who remain out of contact, and to coordinate necessary assistance.
The NEA has also arranged for some family members of employees and workers who remain unaccounted for to visit the damaged powerhouse site of the Upper Trishuli-3A project.
The authority said the arrangement was made to allow family members to reach the project site and understand the situation there.
The project suffered extensive damage after the Bhotekoshi River was hit by a flood on August 26.
