INVC NEWS
Uttarkashi : The Silkyara Tunnel is now witnessing a remarkable resurgence. The construction site, marred by a tragic incident that left 41 labourers trapped for 17 harrowing days, has come alive again with the echoes of progress.
A Glimpse into the Past
Two months ago, on November 12, a segment of the Silkyara Tunnel collapsed, ensnaring 41 diligent workers in its unforgiving grip. What ensued was a relentless rescue operation, lasting an unprecedented 17 days, making it the longest of its kind in the country. The collective efforts eventually triumphed, freeing the trapped labourers from the clutches of darkness and despair.
The Rebirth of Silkyara Tunnel
Amidst the daunting memories of the rescue operation, the Silkyara Tunnel is now witnessing a rebirth. Following directives from NHIDCL and the government, construction work has resumed, breathing life back into this vital infrastructure project.
Restarting the Engine: Construction Underway
The construction activities have kick-started from the tail side Pol village in Silkyara Tunnel. Official sources from the National Highway and Infrastructure Development Corporation Limited (NHIDCL) confirm the resumption of work, assuring that the momentum will only intensify in the days to come.
Triumph Over Challenges
The journey to revive the Silkyara Tunnel faced formidable challenges. Despite meticulous plans to rescue the trapped workers, setbacks persisted. On November 24, the auger machine, a crucial component in the rescue operation, broke down merely 12 meters from the workers’ location. Undeterred, the responsibility shifted to the Army and rat miners.
Rat Miners to the Rescue
In a display of resilience and determination, rat miners entered an 800mm pipe, commencing a meticulous drilling process. Their efforts bore fruit as they successfully extracted the trapped workers one by one, marking a pivotal moment in the tunnel’s history.
Future Prospects
As construction regains momentum, the Silkyara Tunnel stands as a testament to human perseverance. With plans for further acceleration in the coming days, the tunnel is poised to emerge stronger than ever.
