Dozens of trapped hydropower tunnel workers in Nepal could still be alive, official says

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Published: 2026-09-03T11:43:06.006Z • Permanent link

Rescue efforts are ongoing for dozens of workers trapped in a hydroelectric tunnel on the Nepal-Tibet border, where a catastrophic flood has left the country reeling. The incident occurred at the Manang Hydroelectric Project, located in the Rolpa district, where 46 people are believed to be trapped inside a 'room-like' structure. Nepal's Ministry of Energy, Water Resources and Irrigation confirmed that the tunnel, which was under construction, was partially submerged in water following heavy rainfall in the region.

According to reports, the tunnel was designed to be a safe and secure space for workers to take shelter during extreme weather conditions. However, the sheer force of the floodwaters overwhelmed the structure, trapping the workers inside. Local authorities have been working around the clock to rescue the trapped workers, with helicopters and other specialized equipment being used to try and reach them.

Details of the incident are still emerging, but it is clear that the situation is extremely complex and challenging. The Nepal government has launched an investigation into the incident, with officials from the Ministry of Energy and the China National Electric Engineering Corporation (CEEC) - the company behind the Manang Hydroelectric Project - being called in to assist with the rescue efforts.

The incident has also raised concerns about the safety and design of hydroelectric tunnels in Nepal, with experts warning that the country's infrastructure may not be equipped to handle the severity of the floods that have been occurring in recent years. The incident has also highlighted the need for improved emergency response planning and training for workers in the industry.

Rescue efforts are not only a matter of saving lives but also have significant implications for the global energy market. The Manang Hydroelectric Project is one of the largest hydroelectric power plants in Nepal, and its disruption could have a significant impact on the country's energy supply. The project is also owned by the China National Electric Engineering Corporation (CEEC), a major player in the global energy industry.

The incident has also raised concerns about the safety of workers in the hydroelectric industry, with many experts warning that the risks are too high and the consequences too severe. The incident has also highlighted the need for improved safety protocols and emergency response planning in the industry, with many experts calling for greater investment in safety training and equipment.