India provides 68.5 tonnes of relief, Bailey bridge, tunnel expertise to flood-hit Nepal

India has dispatched 68.5 tonnes of relief materials, specialized tunnel expertise, and search and rescue teams to Nepal following devastating flash floods. The Indian embassy in Kathmandu announced the aid on Saturday, which included a tunnel technical contingent and equipment for rescue operations in hydropower tunnels where workers are trapped.

On Sunday, a fourth flight carrying 11 tonnes of relief assistance arrived in Nepal, comprising a team of forensics experts for DNA analysis, blankets, sleeping bags, tarpaulins, plastic sheets, and hygiene kits. An 82-member joint security team comprising Nepalese Army, Armed Police Force, and Nepal Police members has been working to clear debris and reach trapped individuals since Friday night.

Nepal has requested foreign expertise for DNA testing and forensic work. Additionally, 16 trucks carrying equipment for a 230-foot single-lane modular steel bridge and seven Bailey bridges have arrived in Nepal, with installation teams expected to follow. Nepal's security forces have rescued 191 workers from tunnels at hydropower projects in the Upper Trishuli-1 and Trishuli-3A areas, but more are believed to be trapped due to mud and debris blocking tunnel entrances and adverse weather conditions.