The 17-day rescue operation in Uttarakhand’s Silkyara tunnel, where 41 workers were trapped since November 12, marked a test of grit and perseverance. The incident unfolded on the Brahmkhal-Yamunotri highway when a landslide partially collapsed the under-construction tunnel, leaving the workers stranded. The timeline of events provides a comprehensive understanding of the challenges faced and the collective efforts undertaken for a successful outcome.
November 12 – November 13: Initial Response and Communication
The ordeal commenced on November 12, prompting the swift response of the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), Border Roads Organization (BRO), NHIDCL, and ITBP. The focus was on establishing communication with the trapped workers, ensuring the supply of oxygen, electricity, and food through air-compressed pipes. By November 13, the workers were reported safe, but efforts to create a safe passage faced hindrance due to fresh rubble falling from above.
November 14 – November 17: Technological Challenges and Tactical Adjustments
Rescue efforts encountered setbacks as auger machines using the “trenchless” technique struggled to drill through the debris. A state-of-the-art auger machine airlifted from Delhi showed promise but faced trouble at the 22-meter mark. A backup machine from Indore was brought in, only to be hampered by damaged bearings. The decision to suspend drilling on November 17 led to the exploration of five evacuation plans, including drilling a vertical tunnel.
November 18 – November 19: Evaluation and Assigning Responsibilities
Drilling did not resume on November 18, as experts feared vibrations might cause further collapses. A team from the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO) and experts worked on multiple evacuation plans. Union Minister Nitin Gadkari reviewed the situation, confirming the preference for horizontal drilling with the auger machine. Responsibilities were assigned to five agencies, emphasizing a collaborative “whole government approach.”
November 20 – November 21: Incremental Progress and Visual Contact
A six-inch pipe successfully supplied essential commodities to the trapped workers on November 20. Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke with Chief Minister Pushkar Dhami to assess the situation. The following day, an endoscopic camera established visual contact with the workers, revealing their condition and the methods used for sustenance. The focus remained on drilling through the Silkyara side.
November 22 – November 25: Drilling Resumes and Unforeseen Challenges
Drilling restarted on November 22, making significant progress. However, on November 23, cracks in the platform halted operations. The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) reported that 15 meters remained to reach the trapped workers. On November 25, the auger joint broke, necessitating considerations for alternative approaches. Mobile phones and board games were sent to alleviate stress among the trapped workers.
November 26 – November 28: Implementing Alternative Solutions and the Moment of Triumph
A plasma machine from Hyderabad worked to extract the broken auger machine, and vertical drilling from above commenced. Rat-hole mining experts contributed to horizontal digging efforts. By November 28, rescue workers successfully broke through the last stretch of rubble, liberating all 41 workers. The meticulously orchestrated rescue operation involved a combination of technological innovation, strategic planning, and the relentless dedication of multiple agencies.
Also Read: Inside the Silkyara Tunnel: A Comprehensive Analysis of the Rescue Operation
The Role of the PMO in Coordination and Oversight
Throughout the operation, the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO) played a crucial role in coordination and oversight. From Deputy Secretary Mangesh Ghildiyal to Principal Secretary Dr. P K Mishra, PMO officials were actively involved. Mishra informed Prime Minister Narendra Modi as soon as the incident was reported. PMO officials monitored the operation, with Mishra visiting the site on November 27. The coordination meeting on November 20 exemplified a “whole government approach,” involving various ministries, organizations, and agencies.
When the Drilling Equipment Failed: Expert Opinions
International tunneling expert Arnold Dix provided insights when the drilling equipment faced challenges. He cautioned against rushing and announced the irreparable damage to the auger machine. Dix emphasized the existence of multiple solutions and highlighted the need for a strategic approach rather than hasty decisions.
How Trapped Workers Spent Their Time: A Glimpse into Resilience
The trapped workers showcased resilience during the ordeal. Chamra Oraon, one of the rescued workers, shared experiences of playing ludo on his phone, bathing with natural water, and finding joy in simple pleasures like puffed rice and cardamom seeds. The workers maintained hope, prayed silently for help, and sustained themselves with a positive outlook.
The Moment of Rescue: Triumph Amidst Setbacks
The culmination of the rescue operation on Tuesday night marked a moment of collective relief. The evacuation involved a steel chute, with the NDRF personnel guiding each worker to safety. The exhaustive 400-hour operation faced setbacks, particularly with the drilling machine breaking down. In the final leg, “rat-hole miners” manually dug through the last 12 meters, completing the rescue.
Political leaders, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami, Union Minister Nitin Gadkari, and Union Home Minister Amit Shah, expressed relief and appreciation for the collaborative efforts. The President acknowledged the endurance of the rescue teams, and Gadkari commended the well-coordinated efforts, hailing it as a significant rescue operation.
उत्तरकाशी में हमारे श्रमिक भाइयों के रेस्क्यू ऑपरेशन की सफलता हर किसी को भावुक कर देने वाली है।
टनल में जो साथी फंसे हुए थे, उनसे मैं कहना चाहता हूं कि आपका साहस और धैर्य हर किसी को प्रेरित कर रहा है। मैं आप सभी की कुशलता और उत्तम स्वास्थ्य की कामना करता हूं।
यह अत्यंत…
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) November 28, 2023
In a noteworthy gesture, Prime Minister Narendra Modi personally spoke to each of the rescued workers over the phone, acknowledging their courage and resilience. The workers, in turn, expressed their gratitude for the unwavering support from the central and state governments. The praise for PM Modi and the government’s role in orchestrating a successful rescue operation echoed across the nation.
In retrospect, the Uttarakhand tunnel rescue operation stands as a testament to human resilience, technological adaptability, and the efficacy of a coordinated multi-agency approach. The success of the operation, despite numerous challenges, exemplifies the potential of strategic planning and collaborative efforts in the face of adversity.