A significant rescue operation is currently taking place in Chamoli district, Uttarakhand, following a catastrophic event at an under-construction tunnel. Heavy rainfall has complicated efforts as rescue teams attempt to reach individuals trapped inside. Reports indicate that twelve people have been saved, while seven bodies have been recovered, and three individuals remain unaccounted for. This information was confirmed by NDRF DIG Mohsen Shahedi.

The incident reportedly occurred due to a landslide-like event near the Birhi River, which unleashed a surge of water and debris into the tunnel, trapping workers on duty. Joint efforts from various agencies, including the NDRF, SDRF, and local police forces, are ongoing to reach the individuals still within the THDC tunnel.

Efforts to rescue the remaining trapped workers are urgent, as continuous rain escalates the situation. Rescuers are challenged by increasing water levels, which hinder the operations. Teams remain focused on making swift progress despite adverse conditions in the area.

Government Response and Support Measures

In light of this tragic event, the Chamoli District Administration has been actively coordinating relief and rescue operations. DM Chamoli reported that they are working around the clock and have already rescued a majority of the individuals trapped in the tunnel. Additionally, the authorities have taken measures to ensure the safety of the officials involved in the rescue efforts.

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh has expressed sorrow over the loss of life attributable to the collapse, extending condolences to the families affected. He has also stated prayers for the safe recovery of those still trapped. Moreover, Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami has launched a magisterial inquiry into the incident and announced compensation of Rs 4 lakh for the families of the deceased workers.

The Chief Minister is actively monitoring the situation from the State Disaster Management Authority office in Dehradun and has instructed teams to conduct rescue operations with the utmost urgency. He has indicated that their priority is to evacuate every individual trapped inside the tunnel, with numerous agencies working tirelessly at the site.

Firsthand Accounts From Rescued Workers

Accounts from some of the rescued workers provide insight into the frightening circumstances surrounding the incident. Vabil Gude from Jharkhand described the sudden onset of the disaster, recalling a terrifying scene as water and strong winds rushed into the tunnel. He articulated how quickly the situation changed, leaving little time to respond.

Another worker, Nister Bhengra, detailed how the force of the water propelled several workers outside the tunnel. He recounts how they gradually made their way out once the water levels decreased, encountering an engineer who helped guide them. His narrative highlights the chaotic moments when the incident first occurred.

Prem Singh, yet another rescued worker, noted that the water surged in with tremendous force, rendering them nearly helpless. These testimonies collectively illustrate the scale of the disaster and the chaos experienced by those caught in the ordeal.

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