Uttarkashi: In Uttarkashi, Uttarakhand, a section of an under-construction tunnel at the Silkyara end collapsed on November 12, trapping 41 workers. Despite ongoing rescue efforts, the initial plan of horizontal drilling, led by multiple agencies and international tunneling experts, faced a setback when the auger machine blades broke during a 60-meter stretch drill on Friday. To address this, plasma and magna rod cutter machines were deployed on Sunday to cut the auger blades, allowing the resumption of drilling work.
As an alternative, vertical drilling became the second-best option, commencing on Sunday to drill 86 meters, with an anticipated completion in four days. The third-best alternative involves perpendicular drilling, requiring a 170-meter reach to rescue the workers. The machine for this method was expected to arrive on Sunday night, paving the way for drilling work to begin.
The Indian Army has been called in to undertake manual horizontal drilling. A government statement reassured the safety of trapped workers, noting that they are receiving necessary medical assistance, including psychological support, from doctors. Essential supplies such as food, fruits, medicines, anti-depressants, and multivitamins are being provided to the workers.
Lieutenant General (retired) Harpal Singh, former Engineer-In-Chief and BRO DG, provided an update on the situation, stating that the auger machine causing the obstruction has been removed. Efforts are underway to clear the damaged pipe, strengthen the area, and remove debris. Skilled laborers, assisted by the army, will enter once these tasks are completed.
NDMA Member Syed Ata Hasnain mentioned that the third plan involving perpendicular drilling covering a distance of 170 meters had not been implemented at that time. The machine for sideways drilling was expected to reach the Silkayra tunnel rescue site during the night, according to reports from a news agency.
Check here for the latest updates in Hindi!