Uttarkashi Tunnel Rescue: Drilling Machine Faces ‘Difficulties’ Again After 6-Hour Halt

International expert Arnold Dix reported on Thursday evening that the auger machine, crucial in the ongoing rescue efforts at the Silkyara tunnel in Uttarakhand, is encountering “difficulties” for the third time. This comes just hours after drilling resumed to evacuate 41 trapped workers, following a six-hour setback due to the machine encountering an iron girdle.

Here are the key developments from today in the rescue operation for the workers trapped in the tunnel:

• International expert Arnold Dix revealed that the auger machine drilling through the Silkyara tunnel in Uttarakhand is facing “difficulties” for the third time, introducing uncertainty into the ongoing rescue efforts, news agency PTI reported. 

#WATCH | On Silkyara tunnel rescue operation, International Tunneling Expert, Arnold Dix says, “We are only just metres away from finding passage to have the men back. But the men are safe. The auger machine has broken down, it is being repaired and it should be back up tomorrow.… pic.twitter.com/dtX8JtdU61

— ANI (@ANI) November 23, 2023

• It is to be noted that the drilling to evacuate 41 trapped workers resumed after a six-hour setback caused by the machine encountering an iron girdle. The platform on which the drilling equipment is mounted later developed cracks, leading to another temporary halt in operations.

• Despite setbacks, Dix remains optimistic about the success of the rescue operation. He emphasised the cautious approach, highlighting the potential complications rushing might cause, as per a PTI report.  

• The exact nature of the “difficulties” encountered by the drilling machine remains undisclosed. It is unclear whether this will result in a significant delay in the 12-day-long rescue operation.

• Dix warns against rushing the process, stating that it could create unforeseen problems. The rescue operation involves multiple agencies working on various options, with a focus on ensuring the safety of the trapped workers.

• The drilling process was halted again when the platform supporting the 25-tonne auger machine developed cracks. According to reports, officials are working to stabilise the platform before drilling can resume.

• Lt Gen (retd) Syed Ata Hasnain of the National Disaster Management Authority expressed optimism about the workers’ rescue, expecting success by tomorrow. 

#WATCH | Delhi: Silkyara tunnel rescue operation | Member of the National Disaster Management Authority, Lt General Syed Ata Hasnain says, “If no hindrance comes in the way and the auger machine continues to function at its speed of 4-5 meters per hour, then I can say that maybe… pic.twitter.com/rGbq74Kf7q

— ANI (@ANI) November 23, 2023

• Hasnain cautioned against speculating on the timeline for rescue operations, likening the efforts to fighting a war and acknowledging potential hurdles in the horizontal drilling process, PTI reported. 

As part of the government’s action plan, various agencies are collaborating in the rescue operation, with multiple options being explored simultaneously. Efforts include horizontal drilling, construction of a rescue tunnel, and the deployment of specialised equipment. Click here for live updates on the same. 

The situation at the Silkyara tunnel, a crucial component of the Char Dham all-weather road project, is being closely monitored as the rescue operation unfolds.