How engineers in a WhatsApp group are guiding Nepal’s flood rescue efforts

On August 26, a massive flash flood swept through the Trishuli valley in Nepal, causing extensive damage to six hydropower plants and leaving at least 900 people reported missing. The flood deposited 2.2 million tonnes of mud and debris, making it difficult to locate entrances to the tunnels beneath the destroyed facilities. In response, an army of experts in a WhatsApp group, comprising engineers and experts, has been providing crucial guidance to rescue workers in their search for survivors.

The group, which has over 500 members, has been instrumental in sharing real-time information about the tunnel networks, access points, and structural changes caused by the flood. Despite the challenging terrain, rescue workers are continuing their efforts, using the WhatsApp group as a valuable tool alongside helicopters and heavy machinery to locate any survivors trapped in the tunnels of the devastated hydropower plants.