Breakthrough in Uttarkashi Tunnel Rescue Operation as Location Identified for Vertical Drilling

Breakthrough in Uttarkashi Tunnel Rescue Operation as Location Identified for Vertical Drilling In a significant development, the ongoing rescue efforts to evacuate 41 workers trapped inside the Silkyara Tunnel in Uttarkashi, which collapsed 11 days ago during construction, have achieved a breakthrough. The Director of the National Highways and Infrastructure Development Corporation (NHIDCL), Anshu Manish Khulko, announced that the location for vertical drilling has been identified. This progress comes after attempts at horizontal drilling and providing essential supplies to the trapped workers.

Rescue Operations Overview: The rescue operations have been underway for over a week, with multiple agencies, including ONGC, SJVNL, RVNL, NHIDCL, and THDCL, collaborating to address the challenges posed by the collapsed portion of the under-construction tunnel. The incident occurred on November 12 during the construction of a 2-km tunnel from Silkyara to Barkot, leading to the entrapment of 41 laborers following a landslide.

Details of Vertical Drilling: According to Anshu Manish Khulko, the location for vertical drilling has been identified, and the roadwork for vertical drilling on the hill above the tunnel is almost complete. More than 350 meters of road construction work has been completed, and the Border Roads Organization (BRO) is building a road from both Silkyara and Barkot sides, which is nearing completion. The progress in road construction is a crucial step towards facilitating the vertical drilling required for the evacuation process.

Rescue Challenges and Previous Attempts: The rescue team faced challenges in providing sustenance to the trapped workers, with initial attempts at passing Khichdi through an alternative lifeline proving unsuccessful due to its length. However, a breakthrough was achieved on Monday evening with the successful laying of a 6-inch-wide pipe, allowing the delivery of solid food and essential items.

Visual Confirmation and Hope Renewed: On Tuesday morning, rescuers managed to insert an endoscopy camera into the tunnel, providing the first visuals of the trapped workers. The images revealed that the workers had ample space inside the tunnel, renewing hope for worried relatives who had been anxiously awaiting updates. This positive development has injected new optimism into the ongoing rescue operation.

Heroic Response by First Responder: The Head Constable Suresh Kumar, stationed at the Genwala Police Post in Uttarkashi, was the first responder from the police department. He responded promptly upon receiving the call about the collapse and reached the site, showcasing the dedication and quick action of the local authorities in addressing the emergency.

As the rescue operations continue to progress with the identification of the location for vertical drilling, the focus remains on safely evacuating the trapped workers from the Silkyara Tunnel. The collaborative efforts of multiple agencies and the dedication of individuals involved in the rescue mission underscore the resilience and commitment to saving lives in the face of adversity. The coming days will be crucial in determining the success of the evacuation efforts and bringing relief to the families of the trapped workers.