Kathmandu— A rescue team has successfully accessed the upper portion of the Trishuli-III 'A' hydropower tunnel in Nepal, initiating efforts to reach individuals believed to be trapped inside after recent flooding. The team created an opening by drilling into the tunnel structure and has begun providing oxygen to those within, according to officials. A significant number of engineers and workers are thought to be affected, prompting a coordinated search and rescue operation that began Saturday.

Tunnel Access Established

The rescue team managed to create a small opening in the tunnel through drilling, allowing them to begin supplying oxygen to those trapped inside. Home Minister Sudhan Gurung announced the development on his Facebook account, indicating progress in the challenging operation.

The geographically difficult location of the tunnel is complicating rescue efforts.

Search and Rescue Operation Intensifies

Security personnel have been working alongside technical teams since Saturday noon to intensify the search and rescue operation. The government has requested assistance from neighboring India and China, specifically seeking skilled human resources to aid in the complex undertaking.

The team is currently focused on locating a full entry point into the tunnel to facilitate a complete rescue of those trapped inside.

(With inputs from RN)

Originally published on abcnews.com.np.