Uttarakhand Tunnel Collapse: A Mountain Moved, 41 Rescued
Image Source: The Indian Express
In a testament to unwavering determination, a 400-hour rescue operation concluded triumphantly on Tuesday as 41 workers trapped in the Uttarkashi tunnel since November 12 were successfully brought to safety. The operation faced numerous setbacks, including a drilling machine failure in the final stages, but resilience prevailed.
A group of 14 “rat-hole miners” played a pivotal role in the last 12 meters of the rescue, demonstrating extraordinary courage. As the workers emerged from the tunnel, smiles illuminated the scene, marking the end of a challenging ordeal.
The 41 individuals, migrant workers from eight states, were engaged in night shifts for the Silkyara-Barkot tunnel on the Yamunotri National Highway when a section collapsed. Among them were workers from Jharkhand, Uttar Pradesh, Odisha, Bihar, West Bengal, Uttarakhand, Assam, and Himachal Pradesh.
Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami expressed gratitude for the collective effort, emphasizing the role of prayers, divine grace, and the tireless work of rescue teams. The final leg of the operation involved the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) personnel, with support from state counterparts.
A temporary medical facility inside the tunnel ensured immediate attention if needed, and the rescued workers were transported to a community health center 30 km away. The National Disaster Management Authority declared a medical observation period of 48-72 hours.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi commended the families for their patience and courage, acknowledging the inspiration drawn from the trapped workers. He lauded the spirit of everyone involved in the rescue, emphasizing the example of humanity and teamwork set by the mission.
The collaborative effort involved various agencies and officials, including NDRF, SDRF, BRO, RVNL, SJVNL, ONGC, ITBP, NHAIDCL, THDC, the Army, and the Air Force. Overcoming challenges such as failed excavators and broken drilling machine blades, the rescuers adapted to the evolving circumstances.
As the workers missed Diwali during their ordeal, the nation now celebrates their safe return. Jharkhand resident Aditya Naik, whose relatives were among the trapped, expressed the collective sentiment: “We missed Diwali; we will celebrate now.” The successful rescue stands as a testament to human resilience and collaborative efforts in the face of adversity.
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