Uttarkashi Tunnel Rescue, Comprehensive Progress Report

Uttarkashi Tunnel Rescue

Demonstrating an unyielding dedication to saving lives, the government is actively involved in the ongoing rescue operations at the Silkyara Tunnel in Uttarkashi, where 41 workers are currently trapped. The rescue efforts are concentrated on a 2 km section of the tunnel, where completed concrete work ensures the safety of the workers.

Government Agencies’ Persistent Endeavors:

Diverse government agencies are tirelessly working on their assigned tasks to facilitate the safe evacuation of the trapped workers. On-site national and international experts are providing crucial advice, and the government maintains continuous communication to uplift the morale of those confined.

Key Updates on Rescue Operations:

NHIDCL Lifeline Efforts:

• Regularly, freshly cooked food and fresh fruits are sent into the tunnel through the 2nd lifeline (150 mm dia.) service.
• Adequate supplies of fruits, medicines, salts, and additional dry food are being supplied at regular intervals for future use.
• The use of a modified communication system with wire connectivity, developed by SDRF, is ensuring regular communication with the individuals inside, who have reported their safety.

Horizontal Boring by NHIDCL:

• Auger drilling encountered challenges, including a metallic object (Lattice girder rib), which was successfully addressed using gas cutters.
• Obstructions during the pushing of the 10th pipe led to manual cutting of the auger in smaller pieces.
• The DRDO Team from Hyderabad, equipped with a Plasma Cutter, has joined the effort, successfully pulling out 33.80 m length of the auger.

Vertical Drilling (1 m dia) for Rescue by SJVNL:

• Drilling machineries have arrived on-site, and the drilling process has commenced at the designated point.

Horizontal Drilling from Barkot Side by THDCL:

• THDC has initiated the construction of a rescue tunnel from the Barkot end, with progress including the completion of the fifth blast and the fabrication of ribs.

Perpendicular-Horizontal Drilling by RVNL:

• Essential equipment for micro tunneling required for horizontal drilling has reached the site, and efforts to create the platform are in progress.

Vertical Drilling (8 inches dia) by RVNL at Silkyara end:

• Drilling has commenced, with 40 meters completed as of the latest update.

Vertical Drilling (24 inches dia) Toward Barkot End by ONGC:

• ONGC’s drilling team has arranged necessary equipment, and preparations for drilling are underway.

Drift Tunnel by Manual-Semi Mechanized Method by Joint Team of THDCL/Army/Coal India and NHIDCL:

• Drift design has been completed, and fabrication work is in progress by a joint team of THDCL, Army, Coal India, and NHIDCL.

Road Cutting and Supportive Work by BRO:

• BRO has completed the construction of approach roads for vertical drilling by SJVNL and RVNL, with ongoing efforts to support ONGC.

Background: Uttarkashi Tunnel Rescue

On November 12, 2023, a collapse occurred in the under-construction tunnel from Silkyara to Barkot, trapping 41 laborers. Immediate mobilization by the State and Central Governments ensued, leading to ongoing rescue operations. Safety concerns prompted the exploration of multiple rescue options simultaneously. The entrapment area, measuring 8.5 meters in height and 2 kilometers in length, is the built-up portion of the tunnel, providing safety to the trapped workers with available electricity and water supply. Five agencies—ONGC, SJVNL, RVNL, NHIDCL, and THDCL—are collaboratively working on specific responsibilities with occasional task adjustments for operational efficiency.

Note: Timelines are subject to change due to technical glitches, challenging Himalayan terrain, and unforeseen emergencies.

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