Underground Explorers Trapped Beneath Moscow Streets Plead for Help — Tragic Losses Ensue
A harrowing incident unfolded beneath central Moscow where a group of urban explorers became trapped in flooded tunnels, resulting in multiple fatalities. This article delves into the details of the event, the risks of underground excursions, and the ongoing search efforts.
The Neglinnaya sewer tunnel stands no taller than 3.5 meters, but due to heavy rainfall, water levels surged up to 2.5 meters, trapping those inside.
Exploring the hidden river Neglinnaya beneath Moscow’s bustling streets has become a daring pursuit for thrill-seekers. Navigating the subterranean riverbed, long since covered by asphalt and towering buildings, is a challenge few dare to face. Nonetheless, small groups, typically under ten participants accompanied by a guide, venture underground almost daily. This niche activity, known as urban exploring or 'digging,' remains unofficial and unregulated, often overlooked by authorities. Participants typically pay a few tens of US dollars for these secretive excursions. The group that went missing on August 20 reportedly paid around $120 for their tour.
- Tragic outcome in the Neglinnaya tunnels: Eight lost lives, while the tour organizer reportedly fled abroad.
The entry point to the Neglinnaya tunnels is near Trubnaya Square, right in the heart of Moscow. The tunnel system crosses the Boulevard Ring, follows Neglinnaya Street, and runs directly beneath the iconic Bolshoi Theatre.
From there, the route splits: one tunnel leads to the Moscow River near the modern Zaryadye Park, while the other heads toward the Moskvoretskaya Embankment, where waters flow into the Moscow River.
On that fateful Sunday, eight individuals descended into the underground labyrinth around 2 PM, starting from a brick tunnel built in 1906 on Olympic Avenue. After about an hour, they reached the tunnels constructed in 1819 and 1974 near the Trubnaya metro station. It was then that their guide, Konstantin Filippov, realized a heavy rainstorm had begun above ground, marking the start of a terrifying ordeal. He attempted to lead the group back to safety.
According to the Telegram channel Mash, the 31-year-old guide sent a desperate SMS to his colleagues:
"Damn, rain. Can we exit at Trubnaya?"
- Survival expert weighs in: Could the explorers have escaped the flooded tunnels?
After this message, communication was lost. Meteorologists reported an intense downpour, with nearly 60% of the monthly rainfall occurring within a few hours. Streets in Moscow were submerged, and vehicles struggled through the floodwaters. The drainage systems were overwhelmed, filling the tunnels to near capacity. The Neglinnaya tunnel's water level likely rose close to its 3.5-meter height, reaching approximately 2 to 2.5 meters.
Later that evening, a river cruise captain near Zaryadye Park spotted a person struggling in the water and alerted emergency services. Rescuers recovered the body of a young man, estimated to be a high school or first-year university student, who was found without identification. Shortly thereafter, the body of a young woman of similar age was discovered. Police also received reports that Dmitry Markushin, a well-known IT specialist and marketer, was missing.
The young woman was identified as his daughter. The young man was his nephew, who had been accompanied by his girlfriend, also among the victims. Dmitry Markushin himself remains missing, along with several others.
Reports indicate the group consisted of eight people who collectively paid about $120 for the excursion.
Experts believe the floodwaters carried the victims’ bodies underground for nearly two kilometers. The visit was unauthorized and uncoordinated with any official bodies.
Urban explorers typically receive protective gear including high rubber boots that cover the legs, headlamps, and rubber gloves before entering the tunnels.
Heavy rains often cause the Neglinnaya riverbed to clog with debris such as sand and branches, which are cleared during the winter when water levels are low. For explorers, these obstacles can be deadly, especially during severe storms. Moscow has experienced repeated intense downpours in recent years.
Rescue teams and water utility workers are combing the hazardous route, hoping to find any survivors who may have found refuge underground and are awaiting help.
Friends of Markushin expressed shock upon learning of his disappearance, describing him as cautious and not inclined toward extreme adventures.
"Dima was always careful, even somewhat fearful. Thrill-seeking was not his style," they told mk.ru.
It’s possible he joined the risky expedition to confront his fears. His daughter lived with her mother after their divorce, and he made efforts to spend weekends with her. They recently traveled together to Kamchatka, and the Neglinnaya excursion did not seem especially hazardous to them.
The young man who perished was Dmitry’s sister’s son.
Following the tragedy, all underground river tours have been suspended. Websites previously offering these tours are hastily removing advertisements.
Photo credits: Moscow Agency, E. Samarina/mos.ru, social media
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