Uttarakhand Tunnel Collapse: The New 5-Point Action Plan Unveiled for the Rescue Mission of 41 Trapped Workers

The Silkyara Tunnel collapse in Uttarakhand has spurred a colossal rescue effort to free 41 workers trapped underground during the construction. The tunnel, a crucial component of the Char Dham all-weather road project, collapsed unexpectedly, leading to a challenging and ongoing rescue operation. Despite encountering setbacks, authorities have devised a meticulous five-point action plan to expedite the rescue mission.

Understanding the Collapse

Situated approximately 30 km from Uttarkashi's district headquarters and a seven-hour drive from Dehradun, the Silkyara Tunnel’s collapse has posed a daunting challenge. This mishap occurred as part of the ambitious Char Dham project by the central government, executed under the NHIDCL (National Highways and Infrastructure Development Corporation Limited).

The Five-Point Action Plan

1. Vertical Drilling Operations

Efforts are underway to drill vertically from the top of the hill under which the workers are trapped. Simultaneously, horizontal drilling through the debris blocking the tunnel at the Silkyara side is ongoing. Another operation to drill a small tunnel from the Barkot side has also commenced. These drilling initiatives involve multiple agencies.

2. Collaborative Efforts

Five distinct agencies—ONGC (Oil and Natural Gas Corporation), SJVNL (Sutluj Jal Vidyut Nigam), RVNL (Rail Vikas Nigam Limited), NHIDCL (National Highways and Infrastructure Development Corporation Limited), and THDCL (Tehri Hydro Development Corporation Limited)—have been assigned specific responsibilities to execute the rescue plan effectively.

3. Infrastructure Development

BRO (Border Roads Organisation) has constructed an access road and platform atop the hill for vertical drilling. RVNL initiated the construction of a six-inch-wide vertical pipeline from this platform to facilitate supplies for the trapped workers, in addition to existing horizontal pipelines.

4. Ministerial Review and Assurance

Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways, Nitin Gadkari, along with Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami, visited the site and assured that the trapped workers are safe and in high spirits. Gadkari estimated a potential rescue within two to three days if the drilling machines function effectively.

5. Diverse Supply and Rescue Initiatives

NHIDCL is deploying a broader six-inch pipeline to provide a variety of food items such as bread, vegetables, rice, and other substantial meals to the trapped workers. Simultaneously, efforts by SJVNL to drill a vertical tunnel and THDCL’s plan to create a “micro” tunnel from the Barkot side aim to expedite the rescue mission.

Progress and Ongoing Efforts

In the week following the collapse, diverse methodologies, including the use of large excavators and drilling machines, have been employed. Continuous efforts are directed towards removing debris and creating access points to reach the trapped workers, ensuring their safety during the rescue process.

The commitment of multiple agencies and the collaborative effort of experts from varied fields demonstrate a unified endeavor to rescue the workers. The deployment of sophisticated equipment, strategic drilling, and a comprehensive supply network underline the determination to ensure the safe extraction of the trapped laborers.

As the nation remains hopeful for a swift and successful rescue, authorities, engineers, and workers tirelessly work around the clock, exemplifying resilience and solidarity in the face of adversity. The saga of the Silkyara Tunnel collapse stands as a testament to both the challenges posed by large-scale infrastructure projects and the unwavering commitment to saving lives in times of crisis.