India sends 68.5 tonnes of aid, tunnel experts to flood-hit Nepal

India has dispatched 68.5 tonnes of relief materials to Nepal, along with specialised technical teams and equipment, to assist in search and rescue operations following devastating flash floods that struck the Himalayan nation on August 26, 2026.

The Indian Embassy in Kathmandu confirmed that a specialised technical contingent, including tunnel experts, has been deployed to help with rescue efforts at hydropower tunnels where workers are believed to be trapped. The fourth flight carrying 11 tonnes of relief assistance landed in Nepal on Sunday, according to the Ministry of External Affairs.

The relief consignment includes a tunnel technical contingent with equipment for search and rescue operations, a team of forensic experts for DNA analysis, and supplies such as blankets, sleeping bags, tarpaulins, plastic sheets and hygiene kits.

An 11-member Indian technical team comprising doctors, paramedics and tunnel engineers arrived in Kathmandu on Friday and conducted an on-site reconnaissance of hydropower tunnels in the flood-affected Trishuli area of Nuwakot district. The team also carried out an aerial survey of the Chilime and Langtang areas before beginning rescue-related work.

Nepali security forces have so far rescued 191 workers from tunnels at various hydropower projects. However, reports of more people trapped inside tunnels prompted Nepal to seek India's assistance. Many are believed to be trapped in tunnels linked to the Upper Trishuli-1 and Trishuli-3A hydropower projects in Rasuwa district near the Nepal-Tibet border.

An 82-member joint security team comprising personnel from the Nepal Army, Armed Police Force and Nepal Police has been working since Friday night to clear debris and reach those trapped. The rescue efforts have been complicated by mud and debris blocking tunnel entrances and adverse weather conditions.

India has also sent 16 trucks carrying equipment for a 230-foot single-lane modular steel bridge. Equipment for seven more Bailey bridges will be supplied soon, with technical teams for installation expected to arrive shortly. Nepal has sought assistance from India and China for the construction of 42 Bailey bridges to restore transport links in flood-hit areas.

The flash floods swept through the Bhotekoshi and Trishuli river corridors, killing hundreds and causing extensive damage to roads, bridges, settlements and hydropower infrastructure.