Uttarakhand Tunnel Collapse: What Is The Plan For Rescue Mission?

A tunnel that was being built in Uttarkashi, Uttarakhand collapsed on Sunday. This happened between Silkyara and Dandalgaon on the Brahmakhal-Yamunotri National Highway. A landslide caused this, and unfortunately, 40 workers got trapped inside. They have been there for over 70 hours now.

Rescue teams have been working hard to save these workers. They planned to use a special drilling machine to make a passage for the workers to escape. This machine would drill through the debris and insert steel pipes to create a safe path.

But, their efforts faced a setback. On Tuesday night, another landslide happened. It damaged the platform they built for the drilling machine. So, they had to start over.

The rescue team includes people from different states like Bihar, Jharkhand, Uttar Pradesh, West Bengal, Odisha, Uttarakhand, and Himachal Pradesh. They are trying to push two sizes of steel pipes into the rubble. These pipes are 800 and 900 millimeters in diameter and are six meters long. The idea is to make a tunnel-like passage for the workers to come out.

Good news is that the trapped workers are safe for now. They are getting oxygen, water, food, and medicines through tubes. The rescue team even managed to talk to them using Walkie-Talkies. This communication is important for keeping their spirits up.

Now, a new drilling machine and equipment are being brought from New Delhi. The aim is to get the workers out safely as soon as possible.

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It’s also important to think about preventing such incidents. We don’t have total control over natural events, most of the things are unpredicted in life. But we can take some actions to avoid such accidents in the future, here are 4 ideas:

1. Strict Safety Standards: Construction sites should follow high safety standards, especially in hilly areas. Regular checks and maintenance of equipment are crucial.

2. Training: Workers should be trained in safety procedures. They need to know what to do in case of emergencies like landslides.

3. Monitoring Natural Hazards: Areas prone to landslides should be monitored closely. Using technology to predict such events can help in taking preventive measures.

4. Emergency Response Plan: Every construction site should have a clear emergency plan. This includes quick rescue operations and medical aid.

The Uttarakhand tunnel collapse in Uttarkashi is a tragedy. It’s difficult, but the rescue teams are doing their best. Let’s hope for the safe return of all the people trapped there!