WhatsApp group coordinates Nepal flood rescue in hydropower plants

KATHMANDU — Rescue operations in Nepal have turned to an unconventional command centre: a WhatsApp group populated by engineers and technical specialists guiding workers through the wreckage of hydropower plants damaged by a major flash flood.

The disaster, which struck the valley more than a week ago, left rescue teams facing unprecedented challenges as they navigate through tunnel systems within the devastated facilities. With limited visibility and unstable structures, the coordination provided by the expert group has become critical to directing rescue efforts and identifying possible pockets where survivors might be sheltering.

The use of the messaging platform reflects the practical realities of disaster response in the region, where established communication infrastructure may be compromised. Technical knowledge from engineers monitoring the group helps rescue workers understand the layout of complex hydropower installations and identify safe passage routes through damaged sections.

As search and rescue teams continue their work in the valley, the informal network demonstrates how digital tools are increasingly being deployed in emergency situations across South Asia. The effort underscores the challenges faced by rescue coordinators working against time in environments where specialized knowledge can mean the difference between locating survivors and searching blindly through wreckage.