Rescue operations at the Silkyara tunnel collapse site in Uttarakhand have reached a critical juncture, with rescuers just two metres away from reaching the trapped workers. However, officials caution that the remaining stretch is proving to be particularly challenging due to the presence of concrete and steel girders.
The tunnel collapse occurred on October 18, trapping 41 workers inside. Since then, a massive rescue effort has been underway, involving a team of experts from the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), the Indian Army, and the Border Security Force (BSF).
Despite the challenges, rescuers have made significant progress in recent days. They have drilled a vertical shaft from the surface to a point near the trapped workers. They have also been drilling horizontally from an existing tunnel to reach the trapped workers from another angle.
The NDMA has deployed a team of specialist rat-hole miners to assist in the horizontal drilling. These miners are experts in working in confined spaces and have a proven track record of success in rescuing people from similar situations.
We are near a breakthrough, but not yet there,” said Member of the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA), Lieutenant General (Retd.) Syed Ata Hasnain, “Manual drilling has carried on, and we have reached 58 metres. The debris had been cut, and the work was going on the entire night.”
The RTO is also on standby to provide any necessary support, including the deployment of additional vehicles and personnel. The RTO is also coordinating with other agencies to ensure that the rescue operation runs smoothly.
The rescue operation is a complex and challenging one, but there is hope that the trapped workers will be rescued soon. The RTO is committed to providing any necessary support to the rescue operation and is working closely with the NDMA and other agencies to ensure the safe rescue of the workers.
RTOs Devise Diversion Plan
In the wake of the tunnel collapse, RTOs have devised a comprehensive diversion plan to minimise disruptions to traffic movement. This plan involves diverting traffic towards alternate routes, ensuring adequate signage and barricading, and deploying additional personnel to manage traffic flow.
RTOs Coordinate with Rescue Teams
RTOs are also maintaining close coordination with rescue teams to ensure that their operations are not hampered by vehicular traffic. They are also providing real-time traffic updates to motorists to help them plan their journeys accordingly.
RTOs Commended for Their Efforts
The state government has commended the RTOs for their efforts in ensuring smooth traffic flow amid the ongoing rescue operations. Their dedication and commitment have been instrumental in minimising disruptions to essential services and maintaining a sense of normalcy in the region.
RTOs Continue to Monitor Situation
As the rescue operation enters its final stages, RTOs continue to closely monitor the situation and remain prepared to adapt their strategies as needed. They are committed to ensuring that traffic flow remains smooth and that the movement of essential supplies is not hindered.
The RTOs’ efforts are a testament to their commitment to public safety and their ability to work effectively in challenging situations. Their actions have helped to alleviate the suffering of those affected by the tunnel collapse and have contributed to the overall success of the rescue operation.The cause of the tunnel collapse is still under investigation. However, preliminary reports suggest that it may have been caused by a combination of factors, including heavy rains, unstable soil conditions, and faulty construction practices.
The Uttarakhand tunnel collapse is a tragic reminder of the importance of safety in infrastructure projects. The authorities must conduct a thorough investigation into the cause of the collapse and take all necessary steps to prevent such incidents from happening again.