Two workers, Sanjay Shah (30, mechanical foreman) and Kabir Maharjan (45, mechanical supervisor), were pulled alive from a hydropower tunnel at the Trishuli 3A plant in Nepal, nine days after a massive flash flood. The rescue, which occurred on Friday, September 4, 2026, has renewed hope for other potential survivors. The two men were found approximately 170 meters deep within the tunnel.
Rescuers faced immense challenges, including locating the tunnel entrance, which had been buried by a massive avalanche of mud and rocks, some as large as cars. They used explosives, excavators, and pumping machines to clear debris, drain water, and dig a small passageway to reach the trapped men. Arnold Dix, an advisor to Nepal's hydropower authorities, described the rescue as "layer upon layer of miracles," given the difficulties encountered.
Both Shah and Maharjan were taken to Kathmandu for medical treatment. Maharjan, who sustained a leg injury, was admitted to Birendra Sainik Hospital's intensive care unit, while Shah was in stable condition. Shah recounted helping other colleagues escape before losing his own chance to get out, and spent his time trapped chanting prayers. His wife expressed immense joy, stating her husband had been given a "second life."
The flood, likely caused by a glacier collapse, struck on August 26, devastating towns and sweeping away villages. At least 557 workers are still missing from the Trishuli 3A project, with about 115 believed to have been trapped in the main tunnel. The successful rescue of Shah and Maharjan has provided new energy and validation for the rescue team's methods as they continue their search for more survivors.
