Uttarakhand, Aug 14 (NVI): Six workers were killed while 14 others were rescued after water, mud and debris suddenly flooded an under-construction tunnel at the THDC project in Pipalkoti area of Chamoli district, Uttarakhand, officials said.
The incident occurred on the evening of August 13, reportedly after heavy rainfall triggered a landslide above the tunnel alignment, resulting in the sudden ingress of water and debris into the tunnel.
According to officials, 22 workers were trapped or affected in the incident. While six workers have been confirmed dead, 14 others were rescued and shifted for medical treatment. Two workers are still reported missing.
A multi-agency rescue operation involving the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP), Army and local police is underway.
Heavy-duty pumps are being deployed to drain accumulated water and remove muck and debris from inside the tunnel as rescuers continue efforts to trace the missing workers.
Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami has directed the authorities to carry out the rescue operation on a war footing and ensure all possible assistance to those affected.—(NVI)
