In a significant development following the collapse of an under-construction tunnel in Uttarkashi, all 40 trapped workers have been confirmed safe, with communication channels now established. Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami personally visited the site on Monday to oversee the ongoing rescue efforts.
Rescue teams, working tirelessly overnight, have managed to create an escape passage for the stranded laborers, providing them with essential supplies such as food and water, as the workers have endured nearly 30 hours of entrapment.
The tunnel, part of the construction project between Silkyara and Dandalgaon on the Brahmakhal-Yamunotri National Highway, collapsed on Sunday morning, prompting a swift response from emergency services.
The District Emergency Operation Centre released a list revealing the diverse origins of the trapped workers, including individuals from Jharkhand, Uttar Pradesh, Orissa, Bihar, West Bengal, Uttarakhand, Assam, and Himachal Pradesh.
Chief Minister Dhami, after inspecting the site, assured reporters that every possible effort is being exerted to safely rescue those trapped in the debris. He emphasized the joint efforts of the Central and State governments, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Home Minister Amit Shah, and Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnav closely monitoring the situation and offering assistance.
NHIDCL Director Anshu Manish Khalko disclosed that efforts are underway to stabilize loose debris inside the tunnel using shotcrete—a process involving the application of concrete spray.
Various agencies, including the NDRF, SDRF, ITBP, and BRO, have collaborated in the ongoing rescue operations. District Magistrate Abhishek Ruhela conducted an on-site review to assess the progress and strategize further rescue efforts.
Officials expressed optimism regarding the safety of the trapped laborers, citing the availability of sufficient oxygen through a water pipeline. The joint efforts continue as the nation rallies to ensure the swift and secure rescue of those affected by the Uttarkashi tunnel collapse.
