Uttarkashi tunnel collapse: NDRF demonstrates movement of wheel stretchers to rescue 41 stranded workers
Uttarkashi tunnel collapse: NDRF demonstrates movement of wheel stretchers to rescue 41 stranded workers
By: Pune Pulse
November 24, 2023
On Friday, the NDRF exhibited the use of wheeled stretchers to carry 41 trapped workers in the Silkyara Tunnel through the pipeline. The stretchers will be deployed once the horizontal pipe reaches the other end.Â
According to reports, the 25-ton platform that supports the Heavy American Auger machine, which is essential for drilling through debris, has been strengthened by utilizing a concrete accelerating agent to expedite the hardening process of the concrete.
The rescue operation is expected to resume soon. A member of the NDRF who entered the passage was positioned on a wheeled stretcher facing downward. He mentioned that there was ample space inside the pipes and he did not encounter any breathing issues during the exercise.
Based on the official report, the commencement of advancing the 9th pipe commenced at 1:10 am on Friday, moving forward an extra 1.8 meters. Nevertheless, a slight tremor was detected, leading to the temporary retraction of the auger for a reevaluation of the required force. While conducting this assessment, the rescue team discovered obstacles in the procedure.
The official bulletin stated that the auger assembly experienced vibration due to a bent section of the forepole (pipe) from the tunnel lining being struck. To address this issue, an accelerating agent was utilized to strengthen the platform for the auger machine, allowing for the rapid hardening of concrete.
According to the bulletin, the workers who were trapped have been confirmed to be in a safe condition. Furthermore, the State Disaster Response Force has successfully developed a modified communication system with wire connectivity, enabling regular and clear communication. The individuals inside have provided reports affirming their safety.
Freshly prepared meals and a variety of fresh fruits are consistently transported into the tunnel via the 2nd lifeline service, which is facilitated by a pipe with a diameter of 150 mm. In order to ensure stability and safety, the second service lifeline (food pipe) has been extended from its initial location to span a distance of 12 meters.
On Thursday at 6:30 pm, a new food shipment was sent out, consisting of 200 roti pieces, 12 liters of dal and mixed vegetables.
On November 12, a section of the tunnel being built, which extends from Silkyara to Barkot, experienced a collapse. A 60-meter portion on the Silkyara end of the tunnel was filled with debris, leading to the unfortunate entrapment of 41 labourers.
The workers who are trapped find themselves restricted within a fully constructed 2-kilometer section, which includes finished concrete work specifically designed to guarantee the safety of the labourers.
