Kathmandu— A devastating flash flood that swept through the Bhotekoshi and Trishuli River corridors in Nepal on August 26 has left 537 individuals associated with nine hydropower projects missing, according to the Independent Power Producers' Nepal (IPPAN). While 361 employees and workers have been rescued from the Rasuwa and Nuwakot districts, search efforts are ongoing for those still unaccounted for, particularly within a tunnel of the Upper Trishuli-I project where approximately 300 people may be trapped. The floods caused widespread damage to infrastructure and disrupted operations at multiple hydroelectric facilities.

Extent of Missing Persons

IPPAN reported that out of the 898 total employees and workers across nine hydropower projects, 361 have been successfully rescued as of August 29. However, a significant number remain missing from several key sites: 93 are unaccounted for from the Rasuwagadhi Hydropower Project, four from the Rasuwa Bhotekoshi Hydroelectric Plant, and 18 out of 42 from the Langtang Khola Hydropower Project. Smaller numbers are also missing from Chilime (eight), Mailung Khola (seven), Trishuli (one), Devighat (one) and Upper Trishuli-III A (42).

Upper Trishuli-I Focus of Rescue Efforts

The 216-MW Upper Trishuli-I hydropower project is currently the focal point of search operations, with concerns that around 300 people may be trapped inside a tunnel. As of August 29, 254 individuals had been rescued from this site, but efforts continue to locate those still within the tunnel. The challenging terrain and ongoing flood conditions are hindering rescue attempts.

Rescues at Other Hydropower Sites

While many remain missing, some rescues have been successful at other locations. 91 out of 122 individuals who were initially reported missing from the Upper Trishuli-III B Hydropower Project have been rescued safely. Additionally, two people are still missing from Middle Trishuli Ganga Hydropower Project.

Ongoing Search Operations

Search and rescue teams continue to work diligently across all affected hydropower project sites, facing difficult conditions in the aftermath of the flash floods. The priority remains locating those unaccounted for and providing assistance to those impacted by the disaster.

Authorities are continuing search operations and assessing the full extent of the damage caused by the flooding. Further updates on rescue efforts and the status of missing individuals are expected as information becomes available.

(With inputs from RN)

Originally published on abcnews.com.np.