The government is currently engaged in an ongoing rescue operation at the Silkyara Tunnel in Uttarkashi, where 41 workers remain trapped. This 2 km section of the tunnel, having completed concrete work to ensure worker safety, is the primary focus of the rescue efforts.
Multiple government agencies are diligently working on various assigned tasks to ensure the safe evacuation of the workers. Both national and international experts are on-site to advise on the rescue operation, while consistent communication is maintained to uplift the spirits of those trapped.
Recent developments on the rescue operations include:
- NHIDCL’s Lifeline Efforts:
- Provision of freshly cooked food, fresh fruits, medicines, and salts inside the tunnel at regular intervals.
- Usage of a modified communication system with wire connectivity developed by SDRF for regular communication, confirming the safety of those inside.
- Horizontal Boring by NHIDCL:
- Encounter with metallic objects leading to halting of auger drilling and subsequent steps taken for its removal.
- Efforts on pushing additional pipes, encountering obstructions, and using specialized tools like plasma cutters for extraction.
- Vertical Drilling (1 m dia) for Rescue by SJVNL:
- Arrangements and commencement of drilling operations at marked points over the tunnel.
- Horizontal Drilling from Barkot Side by THDCL:
- Progress on the construction of a rescue tunnel from the Barkot end with periodic blasts and fabrication work.
- Perpendicular-Horizontal Drilling by RVNL:
- Arrival and preparation of required equipment for horizontal drilling to rescue laborers.
- Vertical Drilling (8 inches dia) by ONGC:
- Mobilization of drilling machinery and associated materials for vertical drilling towards Barkot End.
- Drift Tunnel by Manual-Semi Mechanized Method by Joint Team:
- Initiation and fabrication work for the drift tunnel by a collaborative team.
- Road Cutting and Supportive Work by BRO:
- Completion of approach roads for various drilling operations and supportive efforts.
Background:
A tunnel collapse occurred on November 12, 2023, trapping 41 laborers. Prompt efforts were initiated by the State and Central Governments, mobilizing resources for immediate rescue operations.
The trapped area within the tunnel, measuring 8.5 meters in height and 2 kilometers in length, holds the workers securely with available utilities. Multiple agencies have been actively involved, ensuring coordinated efforts for an efficient rescue mission.
Please note that the provided timelines are subject to potential changes due to technical challenges and the complex Himalayan terrain.