In a critical rescue operation, experts in rat-hole mining are making headway to free 41 workers trapped inside the Silkyara-Barkot tunnel in Uttarkashi. The tunnel partially collapsed on November 12, prompting a complex rescue mission. As of now, all trapped workers are reported to be stable, and efforts are underway to safely extract them from the site.
Rat-Hole Mining Experts Undertake Manual Drilling: A team of rat-hole mining experts has been deployed to manually drill through the rubble, a hazardous but specialized technique. This method involves horizontal excavation through the debris of the collapsed tunnel. So far, 54 meters of horizontal drilling has been completed.
Shift from Auger Machine to Manual Approach: Initially, an auger drilling machine was used, but it got stuck on November 24. Subsequently, a steel pipe was inserted into the partially completed escape passage, marking a shift to manual drilling. The last part of the damaged auger machine was removed, and now individual workers are using drills and gas-cutters to navigate obstacles like iron girders.
Vertical Drilling and Alternative Shafts: Simultaneously, vertical drilling from above the tunnel has covered a depth of more than 42 meters out of the required 86 meters. Another eight-inch wide shaft, drilled from a nearby point, has reached approximately 75 meters down. The aim is to have a breakthrough by Thursday.
Prime Minister Modi’s Involvement: Prime Minister Narendra Modi has been regularly updated on the rescue operations, showing concern and taking information about ongoing relief efforts.
Weather and Communication with Trapped Workers: A yellow alert for light rainfall has been issued, but officials assure that the work will not be hindered. Workers trapped inside the tunnel are provided with essentials like food, medicine, and communication devices. A microphone has been installed to allow workers to communicate with the rescue team. Family members are also in contact with the trapped workers.
Psychological Support and Well-being: To maintain mental well-being, workers have been given mobile phones with movies and video games. A plasma cutter from Hyderabad has been airlifted to supplement the gas cutter. Psychologists and doctors are providing constant support to family members and workers to manage stress and anxiety.
Preparation for Evacuation: Relatives of the trapped workers are advised to be prepared for the workers’ evacuation. Clothes and other essentials have been arranged, and workers will be taken to a hospital after rescue.
Ongoing Challenges and Hopes for Breakthrough: The rescue team faces challenges in manually navigating the debris, but they express optimism about a breakthrough soon. As the process continues, the well-being of the trapped workers remains a priority.
