In a renewed effort to rescue 41 labourers who have been trapped inside a collapsed tunnel in Uttarkashi for over a week, authorities have formulated a new plan. Instead of attempting to cut through the rock wall, agencies involved in the operation will now drill horizontally from both sides of the main tunnel and create a vertical shaft from the top. This alternative plan aims to access the trapped workers and ensure their safe extraction.
To carry out the operation effectively, multiple drilling machines will be required. The challenging terrain necessitates the construction of motorable roads, which has already commenced. Currently, one machine is operating in the area to pave the way for the heavier equipment. Additionally, a ramp is being built to transport the heavier machine from the main tunnel’s entrance to its roof.
In a positive development, a wider pipe has been brought to the site and is being installed. This will enable rescuers to deliver a greater variety of food and medicine to the trapped labourers. Previously, only dry fruits could be sent in. With the new pipe, authorities will be able to provide more substantial meals, ensuring the well-being of those trapped inside.
The operation has also received support from experts in the field of tunnelling. An international team of tunnelling experts, led by Arnold Dix, president of the International Tunnelling and Underground Space Association, has arrived at the site. Additionally, a robotics team from the Defence Research and Development Organization (DRDO) is also present to assist in the rescue efforts.
As the new plan is implemented, it is hoped that it will successfully access the trapped workers and facilitate their safe rescue from the collapsed tunnel. The authorities remain committed to carrying out a comprehensive operation to ensure the well-being and safety of those trapped inside.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. How many labourers are trapped in the tunnel in Uttarkashi?
41 labourers are currently trapped inside the collapsed tunnel in Uttarkashi.
2. What is the new plan to rescue the trapped labourers?
The new plan involves drilling horizontally from both sides of the main tunnel and creating a vertical shaft from the top to access the trapped workers.
3. What challenges are being faced in implementing the new plan?
The challenging terrain requires the construction of motorable roads to accommodate multiple drilling machines. This is a time-consuming task that is currently underway.
4. What improvements have been made in delivering essential supplies to the trapped labourers?
A wider pipe has been installed to allow the delivery of a wider variety of food and medicine, ensuring that the trapped labourers receive more substantial meals.
5. What support has been received from outside experts?
An international team of tunnelling experts, led by Arnold Dix, president of the International Tunnelling and Underground Space Association, and a robotics team from the Defence Research and Development Organization (DRDO) are assisting in the rescue efforts.