Race Against Time: Rescuers Initiate Comprehensive Operation to Save 41 Trapped Individuals in Tunnel

Debris clearance in progress since Sunday's collapse. (Image courtesy: Abhyudaya Kotnala/EPA)

New Delhi: The ongoing mission to free 41 workers trapped inside a Uttarakhand tunnel for over two weeks has been a tale of relentless challenges met with adaptable rescue strategies. In the past 16 days, authorities have continuously adjusted their plans, exploring innovative avenues to expedite the rescue. Presently, multiple tactics are underway, focusing on both physical and mental well-being as the operation persists.

The latest developments reveal a shift in strategies:

Completion of Auger Drill Operations

Efforts to use an auger drill from the US were hindered as the machine got stuck in debris after drilling over 46 meters. Despite nearing completion, complications arose, leading to the breakdown of the drill. This setback prompted the dispatch of a specialized gas cutter from Hyderabad to dismantle the auger parts obstructing progress. Following this, manual drilling commenced today.

Manual Drilling Initiative

With the breakdown of the auger, a team of 11 specialists from Delhi, skilled in manual drilling, has been mobilized. They plan to enter the 800 mm pipe, clearing debris manually using specialized tools. This demanding task, often referred to as "rat mining," involves rotating teams working inside the pipe and is set to start after cooling down from the gas cutter’s heat.

Vertical Drilling Strategy

Facing obstacles with horizontal drilling, a vertical drilling plan has been activated. Starting 300 meters from the tunnel mouth, the vertical drilling aims to reach 86 meters down. Challenges include penetrating the tunnel's roof safely, with plans to create a secondary passage to prevent harm to the trapped workers.

Other Rescue Strategies

Efforts from Barkot’s end involve drilling through a 480-meter stretch, with minimal progress due to ongoing blasts. An additional plan proposes constructing a perpendicular mini-tunnel, estimated to take 10-15 days for completion, to aid in the rescue.

Worker Well-being

As the operation continues, concern grows for the mental and physical health of the trapped workers. While they receive essentials through a pipeline, efforts to support mental well-being include providing communication lines to their families and entertainment options like video games and board games.

Weather Challenges

Weather forecasts predicting light rain and dropping temperatures add complexity. However, the rescue teams, prepared for diverse conditions, remain resolute in their efforts to overcome these challenges.

The perseverance of the rescue teams remains unwavering despite the hurdles encountered, emphasizing the collective determination to bring about a successful rescue.