Nepal Rescuers Search for More Than 150 Trapped in Tunnels

Rescue workers in Nepal are stepping up the search for dozens of workers believed to be trapped in tunnels at hydroelectric power plants. Nine days have passed since devastating flash floods struck the border with Tibet, China.

Hope for finding more survivors rose on Friday when two men were rescued from the Trishuli 3A power plant tunnel. Both were injured and taken to a hospital in Kathmandu, with one in critical condition. The body of another person was later recovered from the same tunnel. Authorities estimate that 39 more people remain inside.

Rescue efforts are continuing in seven hydroelectric power plant tunnels, where more than 150 people may be trapped, as well as at 19 other locations. Access is complicated by mud and rocks, so rescuers are digging new entrances and pumping air into the tunnels.

According to available data, the floods of 26 August claimed 1,311 lives in Nepal and Tibet, and 5,330 people are missing. Among them are likely hundreds of foreigners from at least 34 countries.

The disaster was likely caused by a glacier collapse. Authorities are also warning that further rains could trigger new flooding.

(bbc, lud)