Uttarakhand Tunnel Tragedy: Rescue Efforts Stalled, Auger Machine Deployment Awaited

X: @the_news_21

The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) provided an update on the ongoing rescue operation at the Silkyara tunnel in Uttarakhand, stating that no substantial progress has been made in the drilling efforts to reach the 41 trapped workers since Thursday.

NDMA member Lt Gen (retd) Syed Ata Hasnain addressed the media, confirming that the drilling process was halted due to obstructions encountered on Thursday. However, repair work is underway to resume drilling using an auger machine. Hasnain emphasized that every resource available is being utilized to ensure the safe rescue of the trapped individuals.

Despite no advancements in moving the pipe through the tunnel debris, approximately 15 meters of drilling remains to reach the stranded workers. Hasnain detailed the operation, mentioning that under normal conditions, the auger machine should be capable of drilling approximately 4-5 meters per hour, contingent upon encountering no further obstacles.

The authorities remain dedicated to the rescue mission and are striving to overcome challenges to expedite the drilling process and reach the trapped workers at the earliest.