In northern India, rescue operations are in progress for the third consecutive day as over a hundred rescuers strive to save workers trapped underground following the collapse of a road tunnel they were constructing. The incident occurred in the Himalayan state of Uttarakhand, where efforts are underway to create an escape tunnel for the 40 workers who are reported to be alive.
Abhishek Ruhela, the top civil servant in Uttarkashi district, provided an update, stating, “Our biggest breakthrough is that we have established contact and there is a supply of oxygen and food. Whatever is necessary for their survival is being done.” Oxygen is being pumped into the tunnel, and essential food items, such as dry fruit, are being provided to the trapped workers.
Rescue teams have been using excavators to remove debris since Sunday, focusing on creating a passage for the workers. The collapse of the 4.5-kilometer tunnel, part of a road project initiated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has prompted a coordinated effort to ensure the safety and well-being of those trapped.
The tunnel, connecting the towns of Silkyara and Dandalgaon, aims to improve travel conditions between two significant Hindu shrines, Uttarkashi and Yamunotri. The project is part of broader infrastructure development initiatives in the region.
Accidents on large-scale infrastructure projects are unfortunately common in India. This incident follows a January disaster in Uttarakhand, where flash floods claimed the lives of at least 200 people. The tragedy raised concerns about the environmental impact of extensive development projects in the ecologically sensitive area.