Uttarakhand Tunnel Collapse: Trapped Workers Likely To Be Rescued Soon

Rescue efforts are ongoing to free 41 workers who have been trapped for 11 days in Uttarakhand's Silkyara tunnel. The workers became trapped after a portion of the under-construction tunnel on the Uttarakhand Char Dham route collapsed, cutting off its exit.

Obstacles encountered during drilling

The drilling work to pull out the trapped workers encountered obstacles, which resulted in a temporary stoppage of rescue efforts. However, authorities remain hopeful that the workers will be rescued in the next few hours or by tomorrow.

Challenges in the rescue operation

NDMA member Lt Gen (retd) Syed Ata Hasnain acknowledged that the horizontal drilling to rescue workers may face 3-4 more hurdles. He also noted that it would not be fair to speculate on the timeline for rescue operations as it is just like fighting a war.

Preparations for rescue

In preparation for the rescue, 41 ambulances, one for each trapped worker, are in place at the tunnel site. Facilities are also in place to airlift workers in serious condition. Food, water, clothes, and medicines are being supplied to the trapped workers.

Communication with trapped workers

A better communication channel with the workers has now been established, allowing authorities, including psychosocial workers, to directly talk with the trapped men. This has helped in providing them with the necessary support and keeping them informed about the rescue efforts.

Collaboration of multiple agencies

The rescue operation involves the collaboration of multiple agencies, including the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), Oil and Natural Gas Corporation, Sutluj Jal Vidyut Nigam, Rail Vikas Nigam, National Highways and Infrastructure Development Corporation, and Tehri Hydro Development Corporation. Each agency has been assigned specific responsibilities, and they are working together to ensure the safe rescue of the trapped workers.

Construction of rescue tunnel

THDC has initiated the construction of a rescue tunnel from the Barkot-end, with four blasts already completed, resulting in a 9.10-meter drift. Efforts are being made to carry out three blasts per day to expedite the process.

Equipment and infrastructure

Equipment for micro-tunneling required for horizontal drilling to rescue laborers has reached the site. A platform is being constructed and is expected to be completed by November 24, 2023. The equipment will be set up by November 25, 2023. Work is also underway to create a drift inside the tunnel, with a safe channel established from 180 meters to 150 meters.

Support from the Army and BRO

The Army is mobilizing box culverts to support the rescue efforts. Fabrication of frames has started, and the Border Roads Organization (BRO) has completed the construction of an approach road for vertical drilling by SJVNL and RVNL. BRO is also building an approach road for ONGC with geological surveys conducted by the oil company. It has also made an access road of 300 meters.

The rescue efforts to free the 41 workers trapped in the Silkyara tunnel are ongoing, with authorities expressing hope that they will be rescued soon. The collaboration of multiple agencies, along with the provision of necessary equipment and infrastructure, is aimed at ensuring a safe and successful rescue operation.