Indian, Nepalese Tunnel Teams Push Deeper Into Flash Flood-Hit Chilime Hydropower Project

September 5, 2026

Indian and Nepalese rescue teams have intensified operations inside the Chilime hydropower project in Nepal’s Rasuwa district as efforts continue to clear blocked tunnel sections and search for people who may still be trapped following devastating flash floods.

Indian specialised tunnel rescue teams entered the Chilime tunnel on Friday and began clearing the affected sections. A temporary track is also being created to allow heavy equipment to be moved closer to the blocked portions of the tunnel.

Rescue teams work through water and debris

The Chilime hydropower project, located near Syabrubesi village in Rasuwa district, was among the areas badly affected by the flash floods that struck Nepal on August 26.

Rescuers have established a foothold inside the tunnel and are working to reach waterlogged and debris-filled sections. Safety ropes have been installed inside the tunnel, while improvised floats and pumps are being used to help teams navigate areas where water and debris continue to restrict movement.

The operation is aimed at making the affected sections safer and improving access so that additional equipment can be brought in and search efforts can be stepped up.

Indian Ambassador to Nepal Naveen Srivastava said the Indian tunnel rescue team, working alongside the Nepali Army, had moved deeper into the Chilime tunnel after draining water. He also said a temporary track was being constructed to allow heavy equipment to reach the tunnel, while doctors accompanying the team held a health camp for the local community.

Medical, forensic teams support relief operations

Alongside the specialised rescue teams, Indian medical teams comprising doctors and paramedics are providing emergency treatment and humanitarian assistance to people affected by the floods.

India has so far delivered tonnes of relief material to Nepal and rescued 166 Indian nationals following the disaster. The relief supplies include antibiotics, analgesics, surgical items, tarpaulins, sleeping bags, blankets and water purification tablets.

Indian tunnel rescue teams have also been deployed at the Chilime and Langtang hydropower project sites to clear debris and search for workers who may remain trapped.

A 19-member DNA and forensic analysis team is also working in Nepal to assist local authorities in identifying victims as search and recovery operations continue.

Indian rescue teams are coordinating with Nepalese authorities as efforts continue to locate missing people, clear damaged infrastructure and provide relief to communities affected by the flash floods.