Devendra Kumar
Forty-one workers remained trapped in a collapsed road tunnel in northern India for a seventh day, as a new drilling machine arrived to replace the damaged one. The original machine was unable to break through the exceptionally hard rock formation, and debris damaged the equipment, pausing rescue efforts. The construction company, Navayuga Engineering Company, was alerted to the discrepancy of one more trapped worker, bringing the total to 41.
Authorities have been drilling into the rubble and debris since Thursday, covering a stretch of 24 meters. However, it may take up to 60 meters of drilling to create an escape tunnel. A team of experts discussed alternative rescue methods, as the high-intensity vibrations from the drilling machine could cause more debris to fall and hinder efforts.
Rescuers had initially hoped to complete the drilling by Friday night, but the setback has added to the frustration and worry of the families of the trapped workers. Relatives from various states have been sleeping near the tunnel, seeking updates on the rescue operation. Krishna Patel, whose 20-year-old nephew is among the trapped, expressed his frustration with the changing timelines for rescue. The families have been awaiting news of their loved ones, who felt fever and body aches on Wednesday, but officials reported no deterioration in their condition.
Officials are providing the trapped workers with essential supplies, including nuts, roasted chickpeas, popcorn, and medicine, via a pipe every two hours. Two doctors are in regular contact with the trapped workers, ensuring their physical and mental wellbeing. Mr. Patwal, a disaster management official, emphasized the need to keep the spirit of the trapped workers high, acknowledging the challenging situation for both the rescuers and the trapped individuals.
The construction workers have been trapped since Sunday, when a landslide caused a portion of the 2.8-mile tunnel they were building to collapse about 200 meters from the entrance. The tunnel is part of the busy Chardham all-weather road, a flagship federal project connecting various Hindu pilgrimage sites. The site is in Uttarakhand, a mountainous state prone to landslides and subsidence, with constant construction activity to accommodate the influx of pilgrims and tourists. As the rescue operation continues, the families and authorities wait with bated breath for a successful outcome.