Uttarkashi Tunnel Collapse: Govt unveils 5-pronged strategy for Rescue Mission

Uttarkashi Tunnel Collapse: As the rescue efforts extend into the eighth day to free 40 workers stranded in Uttarkashi's Silkyara tunnel, Anurag Jain, Secretary of the Ministry of Road, Transport, and Highways, revealed a robust five-option action plan to expedite the mission.

Addressing the gravity of the situation, Jain highlighted the government's commitment to exhaust all avenues to rescue the labourers. In a recent high-level meeting, technical advice was scrutinised, resulting in the formulation of a comprehensive five-option action plan.

Diverse Options for Optimal Results

Detailing the plan, Jain expressed, "In addition to these 5 options, a couple of additional pipes for redundancy of food support would also be put up." The five options have been allocated to key entities like the National Highways and Infrastructure Development Corporation Limited (NHDCL), Oil and Natural Gas Corporation (ONGC), Satluj Jal Vidyut Nigam (SJVNL), Tehri Hydro Development Corporation Limited (THDC), and Rail Vikas Nigam Limited (RVNL).

Collaborative Efforts in Play

Jain underscored the collaborative nature of the rescue mission, involving the Border Roads Organisation (BRO) and the construction wing of the Indian Army. Coordination has been streamlined with the Managing Director of NHIDCL overseeing collaboration with various central agencies. Dr Neeraj Khairwal has been appointed as the Nodal Officer for coordination by the Uttarakhand government.

Government's Directives for Comprehensive Action

The central government has provided clear directives to leave no stone unturned in the rescue operation. Jain outlined, "Along with these 5 options, there is an action plan. We are working on the declared unsafe areas where we were working and stopped later due to movement on earth. We will make a canopy and restart the work with all the security measures."

Ongoing Oversight by Union Minister and Chief Minister

Union Minister Nitin Gadkari and Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami personally visited the site to assess the ongoing rescue and relief operation. Chief Minister Dhami affirmed that the state government stands ready to provide all necessary assistance to the agencies involved.

Background on the Tunnel Collapse

The tragedy unfolded on November 12 when the under-construction tunnel between Silkyara and Dandalgaon on the Brahmakhal-Yamunotri national highway collapsed, trapping the workers in a precarious situation. The government's concerted efforts aim to bring a swift resolution to this challenging situation."

(With ANI Inputs)