Hope Grows in Nepal as Survivors Are Found Alive Beneath Disaster Debris
KATHMANDU, Nepal — September 5, 2026
Rescue teams in Nepal have renewed hopes of finding more survivors after several people were pulled alive from tunnels and collapsed structures more than a week after devastating floods and landslides struck the country.
Two hydropower workers, Sanjay Shah and Kabir Maharjan, were rescued alive from a tunnel at the Upper Trishuli 3A hydropower project after being trapped for about nine days. Rescuers located them after hearing voices coming from inside the tunnel.
One of the rescued workers reportedly told officials that other people could still be alive inside the tunnel, raising hopes among families waiting for news of their relatives. Authorities had estimated that hundreds of workers could be trapped in tunnels across several hydropower projects affected by the disaster.
The rescue operation has faced major challenges because tunnels have been blocked by mud, rocks and other debris. Nevertheless, teams from Nepal and other countries continue searching using specialized equipment and other technologies.
The situation has also produced another remarkable rescue. A 64-year-old woman was reportedly found alive beneath the debris of her home in Nuwakot, around 10 days after the disaster. A Chinese worker was also rescued from a hydropower tunnel on September 5.
Nepal’s August 26 disaster has caused enormous loss of life and widespread destruction. More than 1,300 people have been reported dead, while thousands remain missing, according to reports.
Rescue teams are continuing their operations, while families of missing workers remain hopeful that more people will be found alive.
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