Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami has announced a magisterial inquiry into the recent tunnel incident in Chamoli, following a tragic accident that resulted in multiple fatalities. Each family of the deceased workers will receive a compensation of Rs 4 lakh. This decision aims to provide relief to the families affected by the unfortunate event.

During a press briefing, CM Dhami stated that ongoing rescue operations had successfully saved 19 out of the 22 individuals who were trapped within the tunnel’s confines. The injured personnel are currently undergoing medical treatment, while efforts to recover the remaining individuals continue with urgency.

Stressing the importance of human life, Dhami remarked that every effort will be made to hold accountable those responsible for any negligence. He emphasised that safety should be paramount in all construction activities, indicating a commitment to enhancing oversight in future projects.

Details of the Tunnel Accident

The incident occurred in an under-construction tunnel associated with the THDC Vishnugad-Pipalkoti Hydroelectric Project, where debris and water reportedly infiltrated the site. This incident prompted a broad rescue operation integrating numerous agencies working tirelessly to reach those trapped within.

According to local administration, the tragic event has claimed the lives of seven individuals so far. The injured have been transported to the District Hospital in Gopeshwar, where medical teams are vigilantly monitoring their conditions and providing necessary care.

Local MLA Lakhpat Butola raised concerns regarding safety protocols at the construction site, alleging significant negligence related to construction practices. He expressed that the primary focus during the incident should have been on saving lives and indicated that rescue teams displayed commendable dedication in this regard.

Calls for Enhanced Safety Measures

Butola highlighted that many of the victims hailed from states other than Uttarakhand, and he has reached out to the Chief Ministers of those states concerning the situation. He urged for increased compensation, suggesting Rs 50 lakh for families of those who lost their lives and Rs 20 lakh for the injured individuals.

Further, the MLA critiqued the tunnel’s safety infrastructure, alleging that the ventilation system was improperly connected, which may have compromised airflow into the tunnel. He raised alarm over the source of the water that breached the tunnel, questioning why prior warning signs concerning the sensitive zone were not adequately addressed.

Butola also noted that a similar incident occurred the previous year that nearly led to casualties, thereby raising further questions regarding the ongoing safety measures at the site. He reported having communicated these concerns to CM Dhami, advocating for a comprehensive magisterial inquiry into the incident.

In response to these concerns, CM Dhami assured that a thorough inquiry will be conducted to investigate the conditions surrounding the accident, including the allegations of negligence. This inquiry is expected to scrutinise the adequacy of safety measures and determine accountability if any faults are identified.

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