Rescue efforts entered the fifth day on Thursday as efforts continued to get out 40 workers trapped in the aftermath of the tunnel collapse in Uttarakhand’s Uttarkashi. The tunnel, situated between Silkyara and Dandalgaon on the Brahmakhal-Yamunotri national highway, collapsed during the early hours of November 12.
Officials said that a heavier machine to drill through the debris arrived at the tunnel site and has been installed. Upon successful rescue, the workers will be transported to Rishikesh AIIMS for essential medical attention. Union minister and former chief of the Indian Army, VK Singh, also arrived at the scene this morning to take stock of the ongoing operations.
“The rescue operation is underway; we have full hope. We are trying out best,” VK Singh said.
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“The installation work of the machines airlifted from Delhi has been done, and the rescue operation work is underway,” Anshu Manish Khulko. National Highways and Infrastructure Development Corporation Limited (NHIDCL) Tunnel Project Director told ANI.
Dharam Singh, the father of a trapped labourer, said that his son is also trapped within the tunnel. “My 20-year-old son Vijay Kumar is trapped inside the tunnel. I spoke to my son for a little while, and I gave him courage and assured him that everything would be fine and he would be brought out by this evening. Food and water are being provided to him in small quantities,” Dharam Singh told ANI.
NHIDCL PRO Girdharilaal expressed confidence in the ongoing rescue operation, stating, “We have the support of the administration.. We will succeed in this (rescue process). The machine is 99.99% installed. I want to inform everyone not to get misled… Everyone is fine; they don’t need medical help. But still, the medical team is here…”
Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami on Wednesday oversaw the relief and rescue operations, directing the state administration to collaborate with central agencies for continuous 24-hour rescue efforts.
Telephone numbers have been issued for regular communication with the families of the trapped workers for coordination and support.
The collapse occurred due to a landslide, trapping 40 workers inside the under-construction tunnel. The administration, responding to the incident, has provided guidelines and assistance, ensuring proper arrangements for affected families, colleagues, and media personnel at the site.
(With inputs from ANI)