Admin On Monday 40 laborers trapped in a collapsed tunnel in Uttarakhand, India are alive and rescue operations are underway. The workers became trapped on Sunday when part of the tunnel they were constructing collapsed.
Image source: ndtv.com
The unfinished tunnel is located between Silkyara and Dandalgaon on the Brahmakhal-Yamunotri national highway in Uttarkashi. Approximately 15-20 meters of debris has accumulated, blocking access to the workers.
Rescue teams have been able to communicate with the trapped laborers through pipes and provide them with food, water and oxygen. Efforts are now focused on stabilizing the rubble and creating an entry point to evacuate the workers. This involves using concrete spraying and pushing an 800mm diameter steel pipe through the debris.
Disaster Management Secretary Ranjit Kumar Sinha, who visited the site, stated the rescue could be completed by Tuesday night or Wednesday.
He said, “About 15-20 metres of rubble has been removed so far and the process is on. We plan to push in a steel pipe of 800 MM diametre by boring a hole into the heap of debris. We hope to rescue the trapped by Tuesday night or Wednesday.”
Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami also assessed operations first-hand and ensured all resources are available.
Uttarakhand Chief Minister told, “If there is a need, the government will make it available as soon as possible. If any need arises at any level, the government should be informed immediately.”
The collapse impacted a 30 meter section of the tunnel about 270 meters from the entrance. Authorities are working as quickly as possible, using machinery to clear debris and prevent further cracking.
While challenging, officials remain hopeful all workers will be rescued safely in the coming days thanks to round-the-clock efforts. The government continues to provide technical guidance and support to expedite the response.
