Rescuers Race to Save Over 100 Estimated Trapped in Flooded Tunnels

[Anchor]

Rescue teams are concentrating their efforts on a major hydro power plant construction site, which has emerged as one of the most dangerous areas amid the massive floods. It is estimated that more than 100 people remain trapped inside the tunnels there. However, rescue operations are facing major hurdles as mud has poured deep into the tunnels.

Jang Hun-gyeong has this report.

[Reporter]

A rescue worker carries a survivor out of a tunnel on their back.

With thick mud sucking people in with every step, walking is nearly impossible, and rescuers even have to crawl their way to the tunnel.

The disaster-hit region hosts several hydroelectric power plant construction sites. People who were trapped by the floods while working on tunnels used for water diversion and other purposes are now being rescued.

A man rescued from a tunnel at the Upper Trishuli hydro plant construction site, which was being built by South Korean companies, said, "Water rushed in as if a bomb had gone off," adding, "Those who ran up to higher ground inside the tunnel were able to save their lives."

Nepalese Prime Minister Balendra Shah wrote that 191 people were rescued from the power plant tunnel alone, emphasizing, "Our top priority is rescuing citizens and workers trapped in the tunnel."

A Nepalese military spokesperson stated that more than 100 people are still estimated to be trapped inside the tunnel, explaining that rescue operations are difficult due to mud depths reaching up to 1.5 meters and limited space for helicopter landing sites.

Miraculous rescue news is also coming in.

An 8-year-old boy who climbed a tree to escape the floods was found with a broken leg and lacerations on his face, and was rescued by helicopter.

His mother, who spent two days searching for her son, burst into tears the moment she heard his voice over the phone.

[Mati Maya Tamang - Phone Call with Rescued Son: I am going to see you. (Great.) What should I bring, is there anything you want to eat?]

However, with many displaced people still unaware of whether their families are alive or dead on the fourth day since the massive floods, ongoing rain and the threat of secondary floods are preventing rescue operations from gaining momentum.

(Video Editing: Cho Mu-hwan)
※ Please note: This article was translated by AI and may contain errors.