Uttarkashi tunnel collapse: Welder team enters damaged pipe in Uttarkashi tunnel, auger reassembly imminent

Uttarkashi Tunnel collapse: After 13 days since the collapse of an under-construction tunnel at Silkyara in Uttarkashi, there is a glimmer of progress in the rescue efforts to evacuate the 41 trapped workers. A 25-tonne platform supporting the Heavy American Auger machine, used for drilling through the debris, has been reinforced with an accelerating agent for concrete hardening. The rescue operation is anticipated to resume shortly following this development.

During the Thursday rescue operation, the platform sustaining the equipment developed cracks, halting the horizontal drilling process through the debris. The official bulletin reported that the pushing of the 9th pipe commenced at 1:10 am on Friday, reaching an additional 1.8 meters. However, a minor vibration prompted the auger to be pulled back for assessment, revealing a bent part of the tunnel lining pipe obstructing the auger assembly.

The welder's team has entered the pipe to cut the bent portion, and the auger reassembly is expected to start shortly after this. To facilitate safe passage for the workforce during auger machine activities, an escape passage using concrete culvert blocks, hume pipes, and steel pipes has been constructed over a 67-meter length.

The official bulletin assures the safety of the trapped workers, emphasizing that a modified communication system with wire connectivity has been established by the State Disaster Response Force. The trapped individuals have reported their safety through this communication system.

For sustenance, freshly cooked food and fresh fruits are regularly inserted inside the tunnel through the 2nd lifeline service (150 mm diameter pipe). The 2nd service lifeline has been extended to ensure higher stability and safety.

As the rescue operation enters its final stages, the kin of the trapped laborers are anxiously awaiting their safe return. Family members express hope and anticipation, with one brother stating that he spoke to his stranded sibling through a walkie-talkie, ensuring that all necessities are being provided inside the tunnel. Another family member, whose brother has been trapped for 12 days, expresses optimism and eagerness for the rescue operation to conclude successfully.

The rescue operations had reached a critical phase on Thursday, with officials stating that only a few meters were left to be drilled to reach the trapped workers. However, a technical snag briefly halted operations, which have now resumed after reinforcing the platform supporting the auger machine. On November 12, the collapse of a portion of the under-construction tunnel trapped 41 laborers inside, leading to an ongoing and challenging rescue operation in Uttarkashi.

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- With inputs from agencies

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