India

Chinook Helicopter on Standby: Critical support for trapped workers in Uttarakhand Tunnel

In Uttarakhand’s Chinyalisaur, where the Silkyara tunnel collapse has trapped 41 workers for 17 days, a Chinook helicopter stands ready at the airstrip as a heavy-lift chopper for emergency medical aid. Positioned strategically, the helicopter serves as a backup, complementing the primary rescue plan centered around ambulances and a makeshift medical center.

The Chinyalisaur hospital, 30 km from the tunnel, and the premier All India Institute of Medical Sciences in Rishikesh, 160 km away, are potential destinations for airlifting rescued workers. However, the decision not to fly the helicopter during the night, as explained by Lieutenant General Syed Ata Hasnain (retd.), emphasizes the prioritization of safety and weather conditions.

With one ambulance designated for each worker, a ‘green corridor’ organized by local police ensures swift transportation to Chinyalisaur hospital. The medical arrangements at Chinyalisaur include a 30-bed facility at the district hospital and a nearby 10-bed facility, reinforcing the preparedness for potential medical needs.

As of Tuesday evening, a mere two meters separate the trapped workers from freedom. Rescue teams employ a manual “rat-hole” mining technique after high-tech machines faced challenges. Progress is evident, reaching 58 meters with the assistance of ‘rat miners’ and Army engineers.

Also Read: Dr. Rajeshwar Singh’s Transformative Efforts: Empowering scheduled caste and scheduled tribe communities

National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) personnel, equipped with stretchers, take charge of the rescue operation. The plan involves a single NDRF member crawling through a two-meter-wide pipe to assess conditions and initiate the process of bringing the workers out. Specially-modified stretchers are employed, and a temporary medical center ensures initial examinations and first aid before transportation in ambulances.

The Silkyara tunnel, a crucial part of Uttarkashi’s Char Dham all-weather road project, underscores the significance of the ongoing rescue efforts and the coordination of various resources for a successful outcome.

Priyanka Rai

Recent Posts

Dr Rajeshwar Singh To Honour Forest Personnel At Environment Warriors 4.0

The Environment Warriors organisation will host its monthly wildlife conservation and public awareness event in…

3 hours ago

CM Yogi Inspects Ganga Expressway Progress; Highlights Technological Excellence

Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath reviewed the ongoing construction of the Ganga Expressway connecting Meerut to…

6 hours ago

Pahalgam Attack: Karnataka Minister Says Terrorists Did Not Ask Victims’ Religion

Karnataka Minister Timmapur on Pahalgam attack: Terrorists didn’t ask victims' religion before shooting, says they…

7 hours ago

Canada: Nine Die As Driver Rams Crowd At Lapu Lapu Filipino Festival

A black SUV plowed into a crowd at Vancouver's Lapu Lapu Filipino Festival, killing nine…

8 hours ago

Indian Navy Successfully Conducts Anti-Ship Missile Drills; Reaffirms Combat Readiness

The Indian Navy successfully carried out an anti-ship missile exercise on Sunday, demonstrating its preparedness…

10 hours ago

From Apples To Saffron: PM Modi Celebrates India’s Agricultural Innovations

PM Modi praised India’s environmental achievements and the 'Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam' initiative during…

10 hours ago