NHIDCL faces setbacks in Silkyara tunnel rescue operation

The rescue operation for the collapsed SilkyaraBarkot Tunnel is facing challenges as the auger machine is unable to push further and its bearings are getting damaged, according to a statement from NHIDCL.

The Silkyara Tunnel, which is under construction by NHIDCL through M/s Navayuga Engineering Company Ltd., is part of the prestigious Chardham Project of MORTH. The project aims to provide all-weather connectivity and shorten the distance by 26 Km and 01 Hrs of travel time through steep, mountainous, and narrow roads.

The rescue operation involves the excavation and shotcreting of the collapsed tunnel. A cavity has formed 10 meters above the crown at both the left and right sides, and chimney formation has started along the tunnel. An additional shotcrete machine has been shifted from RVNL Package-III to the worksite.

The rescue team is attempting to push a 900 mm Dia MS Steel Pipe with the help of a Hydraulic Jack to evacuate the workforce trapped inside. However, the machine is facing difficulties in pushing further as it is getting lifted and the bearings of the machine are getting damaged. The team is now anchoring machines to the platform by providing anchors.

The trapped workforce has access to water, food, oxygen, and electricity. Small food packets have also been pumped inside the tunnel through one pipe with compressed air. The stranded workers have confirmed the receipt of food items and are reported to be safe.

The progress of work is being closely monitored by experts from various organizations, including NHIDCL, India Army, BRO, NHAI, RVNL, RITES, Indian Railways, USBRL, IRCON, KRCL, Authority’s Engineer, M/s Navayuga Engineering Company Ltd., SJVNL, and Designer M/s BERNARD. The rescue operation is being carried out with full effort for the successful pushing of the steel pipe and early evacuation of the trapped workers.

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