The collapse of the Silkyara tunnel in Uttarakhand on November 12 trapped approximately 41 individuals. Efforts to rescue these workers were temporarily halted on November 19 as agencies focused on strategizing for the next phase, exploring various methods to reach those trapped for several days.

To free the 41 individuals, the Tehri Hydroelectric Development Corporation had planned to commence 'micro tunneling' from the Barkot end of the under-construction tunnel on Sunday night along the Char Dham route. However, an obstacle was encountered by an American-made heavy-duty auger machine on November 17, halting progress after boring approximately 22 meters through the collapsed debris at the Silkyara end.

Multiple alternative rescue strategies are being devised to access the workers stuck inside the tunnel under construction. Officials have laid a road atop the hill to facilitate digging a vertical shaft into the tunnel. Union Road Transport Minister Nitin Gadkari stated on Sunday that a breakthrough is anticipated within the next two and a half days.

The built-up segment of the tunnel spans around two kilometers and stands 8.5 meters high, equipped with water and electricity. Currently, a 6-inch wide tube has been inserted 39 meters deep into the rubble, intended to provide food and water to those trapped once it penetrates completely.

Ranjit Kumar Sinha, Disaster Management Secretary, mentioned, "Efforts are underway to recommence drilling and pipe laying at the tunnel using the auger machine. In addition to the existing pipe supplying food to the trapped workers, another larger-diameter pipe has been inserted up to 42 meters to establish an additional lifeline."

Uttarkashi Tunnel Tragedy: Nitin Gadkari and CM Dhami Review Ongoing Rescue Efforts