National Desk, 23rd November: The Director General of the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), Atul Karwal, has provided updates on the ongoing rescue operation to save 41 workers trapped inside a tunnel in Uttarkashi’s Silkyara. Karwal expressed optimism that the rescue operation could conclude by Thursday night, barring unforeseen obstacles.
The initial drilling for a six-meter pipeline has been completed, with welding currently underway for the subsequent pipeline, which will penetrate the debris to reach the trapped workers. However, the mountainous terrain surrounding the area is presenting challenges for the rescue operations.
Karwal reported a temporary halt in drilling during the night due to an iron mesh obstructing the auger machine. Despite this setback, officials are determined to proceed with the rescue efforts. The final stretch of drilling resumed early in the morning.
The drilling involves 800 mm diameter steel pipes, pushing through a 57-meter stretch of debris to reach the trapped workers, who have been stuck for 11 days since a portion of the under-construction tunnel collapsed.
Medical arrangements are in place to provide immediate care to the 41 trapped workers once evacuated. A 41-bed ward has been prepared at the Community Health Centre in Chinyalisaur, with ambulances on standby outside the tunnel to transport the workers to the health facility as soon as they are rescued.