Trapped Workers Rescued from Uttarakhand Tunnel After 17 Days

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On 12 November 2023, a section of the Silkyara BendBarkot tunnel, planned to connect National Highway 134 in the Uttarkashi district of Uttarakhand, India, collapsed, trapping 41 workers inside.

After 17 days of tireless rescue efforts, all 41 workers have been successfully rescued, according to a statement from the Uttarakhand government. The latest drone visuals show the final stages of the operation.

The project consists of two main road tunnels: the Silkyara tunnel and a shorter 400-meter tunnel in Chamba. Additionally, there are tunnels being bored for railways.

Rescue Operation Details

Challenges and Progress

The rescue operation faced numerous challenges, including the length of the tunnel (12.5 kilometers) and the unstable rock conditions.

Despite these obstacles, rescue teams used heavy machinery and specialized techniques to clear debris and create a safe passage for the trapped workers.

Timeline of Events

• November 12, 2023: Tunnel collapse and workers trapped
• November 13-16, 2023: Initial rescue attempts and assessment
• November 17-24, 2023: Debris removal and tunnel stabilization
• November 25-29, 2023: Breakthrough to trapped workers
• November 30, 2023: All workers successfully rescued

Recovery and Investigation

The rescued workers are currently receiving medical attention and support. An investigation into the cause of the tunnel collapse has been initiated.

The successful rescue operation is a testament to the dedication and resilience of the rescue teams and the unwavering spirit of the trapped workers.