Rescue Operations Intensify in Silkyara Tunnel as Multiple Strategies Employed
Despite challenges, the rescue mission for the 41 workers trapped inside the Silkyara Tunnel is in full swing, with experts and engineers from various agencies actively working on Plan-5. The situation remains critical as families anxiously inquire about the progress, demanding answers regarding the Rescue Tunnel and the ongoing plan.
In the latest developments:
- A 900 mm pipe, measuring 22 meters, has been inserted, although the machine is reported to be non-operational.
- Plan 5, initiated from five different directions, is underway to optimize rescue efforts.
- The American Auger machine from Indore remains outside, with the Border Roads Organisation (BRO India) preparing the road axis for its potential deployment.
- ONGC is gearing up for vertical digging on the Silkyara Tunnel.
The ongoing rescue efforts involve multiple axes:
- Vertical Digging at approximately 88 meters in the Silkyara axis, which faced setbacks after seven days.
- Barkot Axis, involving approximately 450 meters of piping.
- Perpendicular axes from both sides.
Despite the availability of another Auger machine from Indore, it has not been utilized in the current rescue operations.
In response to the urgency of the situation, the government has taken a comprehensive approach to save the lives of the trapped laborers. In a recent high-level meeting, five viable options were explored based on technical advice, and these strategies are being actively pursued. Additionally, extra pipes for redundant food support are being installed.
Coordination and oversight have been assigned to key officials:
- Mahmood Ahmed, MD of NHIDCL, has been appointed in-charge for coordination with all central agencies and stationed in Silkyara.
- Dr. Neeraj Khairwal, Secretary of the Government of Uttarakhand, has been designated as the Nodal Officer for coordination.
Despite the challenges encountered during the initial attempts, the government, in collaboration with various agencies, is committed to exploring all possible avenues simultaneously to ensure the prompt rescue of the trapped workers. The safety and well-being of the individuals involved remain the top priority.
