Hope rises as horizontal drilling in Silkyara tunnel progresses to 42 meters

Horizontal drilling efforts to evacuate the trapped workers in the Silkyara tunnel in Uttarkashi have progressed to 42 meters, marking 67 percent advancement in clearing the blockade. The government, in an official statement, highlighted the effective functioning of the second food distribution lifeline, ensuring an ample supply of essentials such as roti, sabzi, khichdi, daliya, oranges, bananas, medicines, and clothing items like T-shirts, undergarments, toothpaste, and soap.

Additionally, a modified communication system with wire connectivity has been developed by NDRF/SDRF, through which clear communication is being made and added that "people inside reported in the morning that they are safe".

"NHIDCL has resumed horizontal boring from the Silkyara end to rescue workers using an Augur boring machine. As of date, 42 metres of pipes have been inserted," the statement said.


"Fabrication of a protective canopy for the drilling machine is also underway," it added.

The horizontal drilling operation, initially paused on Friday due to a challenging obstacle encountered by the American-made heavy-duty auger machine after 22 meters, which recommenced on Tuesday.

Inputs from PTI