DDA bulldozer strike: This time against Silkyara Tunnel ‘rat miner’ Wakeel Hassan

Bulldozer action has been taken against rat miner Wakeel Hassan by Delhi Development Authority.

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Edited By: Sonia Dham
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The house of Wakeel Hassan, a ‘rat miner’ who played a key role in rescuing 41 workers trapped in the Uttarkashi Silkyara tunnel collapse, was demolished by the Delhi Development Authority (DDA) in a demolition drive, on February 28, 2024.

According to the sources, Hassan claimed that he was not given prior notice about the demolition, while the DDA asserted that action was taken against several illegal structures on land designated for development. This incident has sparked public debate and raised questions about the treatment of individuals who contribute to society even while residing in unauthorized structures.

‘Rat miners’ are skilled laborers known for their ability to navigate tight spaces, making them valuable in rescue operations like the Uttarkashi tunnel collapse. Hassan was part of the team that rescued 41 workers, his contribution to saving lives was widely recognized.

According to the DDA, the demolition was carried out as the house was built on land designated for development and was an illegal structure. 

Meanwhile, TMC's Rajya Sabha MP Sagarika Ghose has called the incident ‘tragic’ and ‘shameful’.