Uttarkashi Tunnel Disaster
Day 16 – A Chronicle of Ongoing Rescue Operations
operation. The under-construction tunnel on Uttarakhand’s Char Dham route collapsed on Diwali eve, cutting off the exit for the workers following a landslide.
November 12: Tragedy Strikes
On Diwali morning, portions of the Silkyara-Dandalgaon tunnel collapse, trapping 41 laborers. The district administration swiftly initiates a rescue operation.span_As the ordeal of 41 trapped laborers inside Uttarakhand’s Silkyara tunnel enters its 16th day, the painstaking rescue efforts face a myriad of challenges, prolongin
November 13: Communication Established
Chief Minister Pushkar Dhami visits the site, and communication with the trapped workers is established through an oxygen supply pipe, despite the continuous threat of falling rubble.
November 14: Auger Machines Introduced
Steel pipes with diameters of 800- and 900-millimeters are brought in for horizontal digging through the rubble. However, further complications arise as more debris falls, causing minor injuries to two workers.
November 15: Upgrade in Machinery
Unsatisfied with the initial drilling machine, NHIDCL requests a state-of-the-art auger machine from Delhi, aiming to expedite the operation.
November 16: New Machine in Action
The new drilling machine is assembled and begins its operation past midnight, making progress in penetrating the debris.
November 17: Hurdles Persist
Despite progress, the drilling faces obstacles, leading to the deployment of another high-performance auger machine. A loud cracking sound is heard in the tunnel, resulting in the immediate suspension of operations.
November 18: Exploring Alternatives
Officials from the PMO and experts devise five evacuation plans, exploring alternatives such as vertical drilling from the top of the tunnel.
November 19: Evaluation Continues
Drilling remains suspended as Union Transport Minister Nitin Gadkari reviews the operation, favoring horizontal drilling with the large auger machine.
November 20: PM Modi’s Intervention
Prime Minister Narendra Modi converses with CM Dhami, stressing the importance of maintaining morale during the challenging rescue operations.
November 21: Glimpse into Trapped Lives
A video is released, showing the trapped laborers in yellow and white helmets, receiving supplies through a pipeline. Simultaneously, drilling begins on an alternative tunnel.
November 22-25: Persistent Challenges
Despite reaching significant depths, drilling faces hurdles, including metal obstructions and cracks in the platform. International tunnelling expert Arnold Dix suggests considering alternative methods.
November 26: Exploring New Avenues
Rescuers shift their focus to drilling into the hill above the Silkyara-Barkot tunnel, facing injuries and obstacles. The auger machine, previously engaged, encounters issues, prompting consideration of vertical and manual drilling options.
As Uttarkashi’s tunnel disaster extends into its 16th day, the unwavering commitment of rescue teams persists despite formidable challenges, with hopes of bringing the trapped laborers to safety.
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