Critical Halt In Uttarkashi Tunnel Rescue Operations As Technical Glitch Emerges

The extensive rescue operations in the Silkyara tunnel faced an unexpected delay as the auger drilling machine encountered technical glitches for the second time in two days. The rescue mission, now in its 14th day, had seen optimistic projections earlier, but the recent setback has compelled officials to reassess their approach.

Despite the challenges, a mixed strategy involving manual drilling and the use of the auger machine for pipe placement is being pursued, with authorities emphasizing the priority of worker safety and efficient progress.

The auger machine, responsible for drilling through the debris in the collapsed portion of the Silkyara tunnel, came to a standstill on Friday due to technical glitches. Officials initially suggested an optimistic timeline, indicating a successful evacuation by 8 am on Thursday. However, this deadline was later revised to the end of the day, showcasing the unpredictable nature of the rescue operation, as per a report in The Times Of India

The National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) and State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) are at the forefront of a critical rescue operation, aiming to evacuate 41 workers trapped inside. The situation has gripped the local community, with villagers offering fervent prayers for the success of the mission, engaging in traditional Garhwali rituals and invoking divine intervention through 'jagars.'

Amidst the challenges posed by the technical glitch, an official announced a strategic shift in the role of the auger machine. Instead of drilling, it will now be utilized to push pipes into the debris once the passage is cleared by the rescue team. This mixed approach may extend the time needed to reach the trapped workers, estimated between 15 to 18 hours, contingent on the team's efficiency in clearing debris.

The deployment of drone technology has been a crucial aspect of the rescue operation, with Cyriac Joseph, MD & CEO of Squadrone Infra Mining Pvt Ltd, emphasizing the focus on both the success of the mission and the safety of the rescue team.

Updates on the technical glitch reveal that the auger machine has been brought out again, temporarily halting drilling operations. The delay adds to the complexity of the rescue mission, prompting a comprehensive reevaluation of the ongoing efforts.

Uttarakhand CM Pushkar Singh Dhami, expressing confidence, mentioned that the rescue operation is in its final stage. However, NDMA member Lt Gen (retd) Syed Ata Hasnain highlighted that there is still a distance of about 15 meters between the trapped workers and the rescue services.

The use of ground-penetrating radar has provided valuable insights, indicating no metallic obstruction up to five meters beyond the 46-meter point through the rubble. This information aids in planning the subsequent stages of the rescue operation.

As the situation remains fluid, a new deadline for a significant breakthrough is anticipated around 8 pm, according to recent reports. Prime Minister Modi has personally assessed the situation, and the involvement of the army in eliminating obstacles hindering the drilling process underscores the collaborative nature of the rescue efforts.

The dedication of the rescue teams is evident in the use of wheeled stretchers for evacuation rehearsals, ensuring preparedness for the safe extraction of the trapped workers.

The Uttarkashi tunnel collapse rescue mission, now in its final stages, faces hurdles with the recurrence of a technical glitch.

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