‘Layer upon layer of miracles’: How Nepal flood survivors were rescued from tunnel

In Nepal, a team of rescuers discovered two men alive after being trapped for days in a blocked hydropower tunnel submerged by a massive flood. Arnold Dix, a tunnelling expert involved in the rescue operation, likened the multiple challenges they faced to "layer upon layer of miracles." The first hurdle was locating the hydropower station itself, buried under the flood that had killed 1,300 people.

Using various methods, including engineering techniques, old maps, satellite imagery, and video footage, Dix and his team pinpointed the likely entrance to the tunnel. Once found, they had to clear the tunnel blocked by mud and rocks, some larger than cars, resorting to using explosives to make the way. The rescuers then had to drain the water from the tunnel, which was still filled, using excavators and pumping machines.

Finally, they dug a tiny passageway through the debris at the top of the tunnel, allowing them to use the original tunnel's roof as a roof for their little tunnel. Two men, Sanjaya Shah and Kabir Maharjan, were rescued early Friday morning. Despite the relief, the team is still facing significant dangers as they continue their mission.

They are optimistic about reaching more survivors in the "Goldilocks zone" at the uppermost level of the hydropower station.