Kabir Maharjan, one of two tunnel workers trapped by Nepal’s floods, was rescued after nine days underground. His family recounts the hopeful and miraculous rescue.

  • Kabir Maharjan was one of two tunnel workers buried after the flood.
  • He survived nine days underground before being rescued.
  • His family emphasizes never losing hope during the ordeal.

Kathmandu – In July 2024, unprecedented monsoon floods swept through central Nepal, collapsing a construction tunnel and trapping two workers, including Kabir Maharjan. After nine harrowing days, coordinated rescue teams from local authorities and international NGOs succeeded in pulling him to safety.

Kabir Maharjan’s Ordeal

Kabir, a resident of a small village in Dhading district, worked on the tunnel project with his colleague. When the floodwaters surged, a section of the tunnel gave way, burying both men under debris and water. Rescuers faced low visibility, strong currents, and unstable ground, but they persisted, listening for faint tapping sounds that Kabir managed to make.

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Family’s Response

Kabir’s sister‑in‑law said, “We never gave up hope. Every day we prayed, and finally, God showed us this miracle. He is safe now, and we are forever grateful.” The family also detailed the medical care and rehabilitation Kabir received after the rescue.

Historical Background

Nepal has experienced a surge in flood events over the past two decades, with major incidents in 2017, 2020, and 2023 causing widespread displacement and loss of life. Rapid urbanization and climate‑change‑driven extreme weather have exposed vulnerabilities in the country’s infrastructure, especially in mountainous and river‑valley regions.

Why This Matters

BozokMedia analysis shows that Nepal’s growing infrastructure projects are increasingly at risk from climate‑induced disasters. Successful rescues like Kabir’s underscore the urgent need for better early‑warning systems, reinforced tunnel designs, and well‑trained rapid‑response teams.

“Incidents like this remind us how fragile infrastructure can be in flood‑prone zones and highlight the critical role of swift, coordinated rescue operations.” – Dr. Sita Rai, Disaster Management Specialist
Did You Know?: Nepal’s monsoon rivers discharge over 150 million cubic meters of water each year, often cutting off remote villages and complicating rescue efforts.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • How many days was Kabir Maharjan trapped underground?
  • What is his health condition after the rescue?