Nepal Flood Rescue Stalls as Bad Weather Grounds Helicopters
Poor weather has halted helicopter rescues in flood-hit Nuwakot, Nepal, while ground troops work to reach those trapped, including in a hydropower tunnel.
Rescue operations in Nepal's flood-affected Nuwakot District faced significant delays on Saturday morning as adverse weather conditions forced the suspension of aerial missions. A Nepali Army spokesperson, Brig. Gen. Raja Ram Basnet, confirmed that while ground troops have been deployed to multiple locations, helicopter sorties remain grounded until the weather clears.
"Weather is not that good this morning around the affected area," Basnet stated, explaining the hold on air support. The challenging conditions have compounded an already difficult rescue scenario, with teams navigating through thick mud and limited landing zones.
A major focus of the ongoing efforts is the Trishuli A hydropower project, where an estimated 100 people are believed to be trapped inside a tunnel. Since Friday, 55 army personnel have been stationed at the site. Rescuers have managed to reach some individuals using baskets and ropes, but progress is slow. The operation is hampered by 4 to 5 feet (1.2 to 1.5 meters) of mud and a scarcity of suitable helicopter landing sites.
Adding to the complexity, rescue teams have had to temporarily relocate on multiple occasions due to flood risk alerts originating from the Chinese side. These precautionary moves have consumed valuable time, further delaying efforts to reach those in need. The situation remains fluid as authorities await improved weather to resume full-scale aerial support.