The Dedicated Freight Corridor Corporation of India Limited (DFCCIL) and Indian Railways (IR) have come together to launch a special train transporting equipment from Karambeli in Gujarat to Rishikesh in Uttarakhand, covering a distance of 1605 km. The mission is to assist in the rescue of workers trapped in Uttarkashi tunnel collapse incident.
The train, operating on the DFCCIL alignment between New Sanand and New Khatauli, achieved a remarkable feat by covering 1075 km in 18 hours and 38 minutes on November 21 and 22, 2023. Running at a maximum permissible speed of 95%, the train successfully reached Rishikesh station at 9:00 a.m.
DFCCIL – A Game Changer in Logistics
Considered a game changer for the country’s logistics sector, DFCCIL has completed 87.4% of its total length of 2843 km, with 95% of the entire DFC projected to be completed by March 2024. The project’s efficiency and high average speed make it a key player in addressing critical situations.
Intensified Rescue Operations and Government Initiatives
As the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) intensifies rescue operations in the Silkyara tunnel in Uttarkashi, the government has mobilized resources, including machinery from ONGC sourced internationally and the collaborative efforts of various agencies such as SJVNL, RVNL, NHIDCL, and THDCL.
The rescue area, measuring 8.5 meters in height and 2 kilometers in length, remains a focus of emergency efforts, with 30 ambulances stationed on-site for immediate medical assistance.