Hope Amidst Debris: Uttarkashi Tunnel Rescue Enters Critical Phase

In a challenging third day of rescue efforts following a landslide in an under-construction tunnel in Uttarkashi, authorities are employing innovative measures to evacuate trapped laborers. Here's a detailed update on the ongoing rescue mission:

A significant development in the rescue operation is the arrival of an auger drilling machine, which is set to play a crucial role in the evacuation process. The machine will install a 900mm steel pipe into the tunnel, providing a secure passage for the stranded workers.

The 900mm pipes have been transported to the incident site, and preparations for the auger drilling machine's installation platform are complete. The drilling machine setup is progressing swiftly, indicating an acceleration in the rescue mission.

Ongoing soil ingress from above into the tunnel has prompted the introduction of a pipe into the construction. This strategic move aims to obstruct further soil entry, with the drilling machine being instrumental in placing the pipes. The operation is estimated to take up to 24 hours to complete.

Secretary of Disaster Management, Ranjit Kumar Sinha, reassured the public that all workers inside the tunnel are safe. Through the installed pipeline, a continuous supply of food, water, and oxygen is being provided to ensure the well-being of the stranded laborers.

Commandant Manikant Mishra of the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) conveyed a message of reassurance to the workers, assuring them of a safe rescue. Adequate supplies, including food and essential medicines, have been delivered to the trapped laborers through the compressor system.

Rescue workers anticipate a meticulous clearing of debris, estimating that approximately 35 meters of rubble needs to be removed before reaching the trapped workers. The rescue operation has been ongoing for over 52 hours, underscoring the complexity of the task at hand.

Dr. Sinha, the Secretary of Disaster Management, inspected the tunnel's interior and identified the presence of soft rock contributing to the landslide. The continuous removal of debris using JCBs and other machinery is in progress.

Efforts are underway to provide additional oxygen to the trapped workers through both pipeline and compressed methods. The rescue team aims to complete the evacuation within the next 24 to 48 hours, ensuring the safe extraction of the 40 laborers.

In a Walkie-Talkie interaction facilitated by Commander Mishra, trapped workers expressed their well-being and confirmed the receipt of essential supplies. The rescue team is committed to ensuring the mental and physical health of the workers during the operation.

Laborers involved in the construction project, who were initially looking forward to celebrating Diwali, found themselves trapped just hours before the festival. The unfortunate incident occurred as they were wrapping up their shifts for the day.

The incident took place in the under-construction Silkyara Tunnel, part of the Chardham Highway project, with only about 500 meters remaining to complete the 4.5-kilometer tunnel. The project involves laborers working in two shifts, contributing to the construction by various companies, including Navayuga, Shri Sai Construction, and Nav Durga. As the rescue operation progresses, the joint efforts of the rescue teams and authorities remain focused on ensuring the safe evacuation of all trapped laborers. The intricate process involves strategic drilling, continuous debris removal, and a commitment to the well-being of those inside the tunnel.

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