Uttarkashi: After enduring weeks of entrapment, the 41 workers stuck in Uttarakhand’s Silkyari tunnel since November 12 were rescued today. Employing the intricate “rat-hole” mining technique, rescuers have meticulously cleared the final debris, completing the laying of pipes for worker extraction.
The National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) personnel are standing by with wheeled stretchers tied to ropes, ready to pull out the trapped workers as the operation enters its final stages. The tunnel, which collapsed between the 205 and 260-meter mark on the Silkyara side, left workers stranded beyond the 260-meter point.
In a proactive response, Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee dispatched a team led by Rajdeep Dutta, Liaison Officer, Office of Resident Commissioner, New Delhi, to assist in the evacuation and safe return of the trapped West Bengal workers. Among those trapped are Manir Talukdar, Sevik Pakhera, and Jaidev Pramanik.
CM Banerjee’s initiative underscores the commitment to ensuring the well-being of Bengal workers. Rishikesh AIIMS is on high alert, with a specially designated 41-bed ward and a team of cardiac, psychiatric specialists, and a trauma surgeon available. Airlifting is planned for workers in critical condition, showcasing a comprehensive medical response.
Lt Gen (retd) Syed Ata Hasnain, a member of the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA), indicated that the process of extracting one worker would take approximately five minutes. He estimated that rescuing all 41 workers would span 3-4 hours.
As the operation nears its conclusion, the tireless efforts of rescue teams, combined with coordinated medical support, demonstrate a collective commitment to ensuring the safety and well-being of the trapped workers. The imminent success of the rescue operation brings hope and relief to those eagerly awaiting the workers’ safe return to their families.
Till now, 15 workers have been evacuated successfully from the tunnel. The remaining are expected to be evacuated before the day ends.
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