INDIA, Nov 14, (Agencies): Rescue operations are underway in the northern Indian state of Uttarakhand as emergency teams race against time to save 40 workers trapped inside a collapsed tunnel since Sunday morning. The workers, involved in the construction of the tunnel, became trapped following a landslide that caused a portion of the tunnel to cave in. Officials have established contact with the workers, providing them with essential supplies such as food, water, and oxygen while diligently working on their rescue. Anticipating a successful evacuation, authorities aim to free the trapped workers by Tuesday night or Wednesday.

The state government has detailed rescue efforts, including plans to drill and insert a 900mm diameter metal pipe into the blocked section of the tunnel, allowing the workers to escape. This strategic approach is a crucial step in ensuring the safety of those trapped. The tunnel, situated in Uttarkashi district, is a part of the federal government's ambitious highway project designed to enhance connectivity to prominent pilgrimage sites in Uttarakhand. The mountainous state, housing revered Hindu sites amid its Himalayan peaks and glaciers, is of immense cultural significance.

The incident occurred at 05:00 local time on Sunday when a section of the Silkyara tunnel, approximately 200m from its entrance, collapsed due to a landslide, trapping the workers inside. The landslide resulted in heavy debris blocking the tunnel, disrupting the oxygen supply. Contact with the workers was established on Sunday night, utilizing walkie-talkies, and a pipeline originally intended for water supply during construction is now delivering essential provisions to the trapped individuals.

Rescue teams face the formidable task of excavating through several meters of debris before initiating evacuations. Heavy machinery, including excavators, is actively engaged in clearing the debris. State Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami assured coordinated efforts between national and state disaster relief teams, emphasizing the safety of the trapped workers. Continuous updates and joint rescue operations reflect a determined commitment to ensuring the well-being of those affected by this unfortunate incident.