Nepal: army rescues hundreds as diaspora mourns lives lost

Nepal's military has conducted a large-scale rescue operation in Rasuwa district, saving hundreds of people trapped in a collapsed hydropower tunnel following severe flooding on 26 August. The incident occurred at the Upper Trishuli-3A hydropower project, where floodwaters and debris surged through the structure, trapping over 100 workers and local residents. By late Friday, the Nepali Army confirmed that approximately 350 individuals had been successfully evacuated, with specialized teams continuing their search efforts inside the submerged tunnel despite dangerous conditions. Rescuers were captured on camera extracting a man from thick mud near the tunnel's entrance and assisting others to safety. Helicopters operated by the military transported survivors from the area, while additional aircraft surveyed damaged regions in neighboring Nuwakot, airlifting injured and stranded residents to safety. The ongoing crisis has left more than 1,500 people unaccounted for across Nepal and China, with hundreds more displaced, including both local populations and international visitors such as tourists and pilgrims. The disaster has sparked widespread mourning among the global Nepali community. On 27 August, members of the Nepali diaspora in New York held a candlelight vigil at Diversity Plaza in Jackson Heights, Queens, to honor those who perished in the catastrophe. Organized by 32 community groups, the event brought together leaders, local associations, and residents. Attendees lit candles and arranged them to form the word “NEPAL” and the outline of the nation’s flag, standing in silence as the extent of the tragedy became clearer. Michael Ashkenazey, secretary of the Rotary Club of New York Queens, spoke during a concurrent gathering at the United Sherpa Association Community Center, emphasizing the solidarity of the diaspora. He stated, “Let us show the people of Nepal that even from thousands of miles away, they are not forgotten and they are not alone.” These vigils reflect the deep emotional impact of the disaster on the global Nepali population, highlighting the sense of unity and support felt by those living abroad. The hydropower project, located in a remote mountainous region, was hit by torrential rains that triggered flash floods and landslides. The sudden surge of water and debris overwhelmed the infrastructure, leading to the collapse of parts of the tunnel and trapping those inside. Rescue operations have been complicated by the rugged terrain and the risk of further landslides, which have hindered access to affected areas. Despite these challenges, the Nepali Army has maintained a continuous presence at the site, working alongside local authorities and emergency services to locate and extract survivors. In addition to the rescue efforts in Rasuwa, military helicopters have been deployed to other affected districts, including Nuwakot, where they have been conducting aerial surveys and transporting casualties to medical facilities. The situation remains critical, with officials warning that the number of missing persons could rise as search and recovery operations continue. Relief agencies and volunteers have also joined the effort, distributing food, water, and shelter to displaced families. The disaster has drawn attention to the vulnerability of hydropower projects in Nepal, particularly in regions prone to heavy rainfall and seismic activity. Experts have called for improved safety measures and early warning systems to prevent similar incidents in the future. Meanwhile, the government has pledged to provide assistance to affected communities, though the scale of the relief response will depend on the final toll of the disaster. As the search continues, the focus remains on locating the remaining missing individuals and providing aid to those impacted by the floods. The resilience of the Nepali people, both within the country and in the diaspora, has become evident as they come together to support one another amid the crisis.