A part of an under-construction tunnel connecting Silkyara to Dandalgaon in Uttarkashi, under the Char Dham Road Project, collapsed, leaving several workers feared trapped.
The tunnel, spanning four and a half kilometres, is a crucial component of the infrastructure project aiming to reduce the travel distance from Uttarkashi to Yamunotri Dham by 26 kilometres.
The collapse occurred around 4 a.m., with a 150-meter section of the tunnel succumbing to the disaster. Action was taken as the district administration, upon receiving information, sounded an alert, and Uttarkashi Superintendent of Police, Arpan Yaduvanshi, promptly reached the site.
Efforts to rescue the trapped workers are underway, led by the State Disaster Relief Force (SDRF) and the local police. Authorities estimate that approximately 40 workers may be trapped inside. To facilitate the rescue mission, nearly 200 meters of debris will need to be cleared to open the tunnel. A narrow opening has been created to insert an oxygen pipe, providing essential support to the workers awaiting rescue.
Fortunately, no casualties have been reported as of now. Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami, closely monitoring the situation, spoke to ANI, stating, “I have been in contact with the officials from the time I got to know about the incident. NDRF and SDRF are at the spot. We pray to God for the safe return of everybody.”
