Two trapped tunnel workers rescued in Nepal 'miracle'

KATHMANDU, Nepal: Two hydropower workers were miraculously rescued after being trapped for ten days in a tunnel buried by debris following catastrophic flooding in Nepal. Rescuers celebrated as one man was pulled out through a muddy opening, alive and conscious, to be greeted by cheering workers. The second man was found caked in mud and praying as he was carried on a stretcher.

Energy Minister Biraj Bhakta Shrestha expressed gratitude, stating "as long as there is breath, there is hope." The rescue was hailed as a miracle following the August 26 glacial and mountain collapse on the China-Nepal border, which has resulted in at least 1,280 deaths and over 5,500 people reported missing. Among the rescued were Sanjay Shah, 30, a mechanical foreman, and Amir Maharjan, 45, a mechanical supervisor.

Shah is reported to be in stable condition, while Maharjan is in intensive care. The families of the rescued workers expressed immense joy and relief, with Maharjan's brother stating he is "so happy" and "my heart is lighter." Rescue efforts continue across multiple sites, with teams continuing to search for survivors amid the rubble of at least 12 damaged hydropower projects.