In the aftermath of the tunnel collapse on the Yamunotri National Highway in Uttarkashi, the rescue operation is in full swing as workers strive to reach the 40 laborers trapped since the incident occurred early Sunday morning.
As of November 17, Col. Deepak Patil, leading the rescue efforts, has indicated that equipment for a potential alternative plan is en route, although there is optimism that the current rescue strategy will prove successful. A high-capacity drilling machine from New Delhi has been employed, with rescue workers having drilled up to 24 meters through the rubble by the afternoon.
The plan involves reaching a depth of 60 meters to insert 800 mm and 900 mm diameter pipes consecutively, creating a passage for the trapped laborers. Despite facing setbacks earlier in the week, the introduction of state-of-the-art American-made “horizontal dry drilling equipment with auger” has enhanced the rescue operation.
Amid the challenging conditions, some of the trapped workers have reported minor headaches and nausea. A six-inch pipe is being utilized to deliver essential medicines, multivitamins, glucose, and dry fruits to those inside.
The collapse, which occurred around 5:30 am on Sunday, involved an under-construction tunnel intended to connect Silkyara and Dandalgaon in Uttarkashi district. Communication with the trapped individuals has been established through walkie-talkies, and they are receiving necessary supplies through a dedicated pipe.
The laborers trapped inside hail from various regions, including Bihar, Jharkhand, Uttar Pradesh, West Bengal, Odisha, Uttarakhand, and Himachal Pradesh, according to the District Emergency Operation Centre. The persistent efforts of the rescue teams highlight the urgency and complexity of the situation as the operation enters a critical phase.
