Rescue operations in Uttarkashi tunnel ongoing as 40 still trapped, Oxygen-food supplied

On Monday, rescue operations continued to free nearly forty labourers who are still believed to be trapped in the Silkyara Tunnel in the Uttarkashi district of Uttarakhand.

Authorities reported that the stranded labourers are secure, they have been contacted and oxygen is being supplied via a pipeline installed in the tunnel for the purpose of supplying water. Food supplies were delivered to the stranded labourers via the same pipe at night by applying pressure using a compressor.

In the meantime, large excavators have been used to clear the debris.

Pushkar Singh Dhami, the chief minister of Uttarakhand, visited the scene on Monday to view the rescue efforts.

“The PM has assured of all possible help. NDRF, SDRF, other agencies and experts are working to rescue the 40 stranded persons. We want to assure the families of those stranded that the state govt and administration are making every effort to rescue them,” the Chief Minister said.

A section of the tunnel under construction between Silkyara and Dandalgaon on the Brahmakhal-Yamunotri national highway collapsed on Sunday morning, trapping at least forty workers.

Following their notification of the incident, police, members of the National Disaster Response Force, and State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) immediately began a search and rescue operation, according to Uttarkashi Superintendent of Police (SP) Arpan Yaduvanshi.

Inquiring about the latest developments, Uttarkashi DM Ruhela was contacted by Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami, who also requested that the rescue effort be expedited.

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