Efforts Intensify to Rescue 40 Workers Trapped in Uttarakhand Tunnel Collapse

Authorities in Uttarakhand, India are working tirelessly to rescue approximately 40 workers who became trapped inside a tunnel. The workers were constructing the tunnel when a landslide occurred, causing a section of the tunnel to collapse on Sunday morning. A senior official stated that contact has been established with the trapped individuals and they are currently being provided with oxygen and food. However, rescue teams must first remove several meters of debris before they can evacuate the workers. The incident took place at 05:00 local time on Sunday, with the collapse transpiring 200 meters from the opening of the Silkyara tunnel. This tunnel is part of a government project aimed at improving connectivity to significant pilgrimage destinations in Uttarakhand, a state known for its sacred Hindu sites and mountainous terrain. The collapse was triggered by a nearby landslide, resulting in debris obstructing the oxygen supply to the trapped workers. Authorities managed to establish communication with the workers through walkie-talkies on Sunday night and are currently utilizing a water pipeline to deliver essential supplies to them. Heavy machinery, including excavators, is being employed to clear the debris and facilitate the rescue operation. Although significant progress has been made, officials estimate that it may still take several hours before the debris is completely cleared. Consequently, it is likely that the trapped workers will not be reached until Monday evening. National and state disaster relief teams are collaborating on the rescue efforts under the supervision of the state's chief minister, Pushkar Singh Dhami. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has offered full assistance to the rescue mission. The workers trapped in the tunnel hail from various states across India and were eagerly anticipating celebrating the Hindu festival of lights, Diwali, together on Sunday.