Chamoli (Uttarakhand): Seven workers have died after water and debris suddenly rushed into an under-construction tunnel at the Vishnugad-Pipalkoti hydroelectric project in Uttarakhand’s Chamoli district. Rescue teams have brought out workers trapped inside the tunnel, while the search for those still missing is on.
The latest reports confirmed seven deaths, with rescue teams continuing to search for missing workers. Workers were carrying out construction in the tunnel when a loud sound was followed by a sudden flow of water and debris. The material rapidly entered the tunnel, leaving some workers with very little time to get out. The number of people rescued and the number still unaccounted for changed as the operation continued through the night. NDRF and SDRF teams reached the site after the accident and began working in the waterlogged tunnel. The conditions made the rescue difficult. Teams had to work through standing water and debris while trying to reach the trapped workers. Machinery was also used to clear the way and reach deeper sections of the tunnel. The accident happened at the Vishnugad-Pipalkoti hydroelectric project being developed by the Tehri Hydro Development Corporation Limited (THDC). Chamoli District Magistrate Gaurav Kumar was at the site overseeing the rescue operation. District officials, the police and rescue agencies are working together, with additional machinery and medical facilities sent to the area.
The accident took place on Thursday (August 13) evening in the Pipalkoti area. Officials said a total of 22 workers were initially trapped in the tunnel.
NDRF team commander Amrit Lal Meena said a large amount of water had entered the tunnel, while water was also seeping in from the sides. Construction work at the site is being carried out by the Hindustan Construction Company, according to officials.
Seven dead, workers taken to hospital
The rescue operation involved several agencies, including the the NDRF, the SDRF, the Army, the Indo-Tibetan Border Police and other local teams. Officials continued to monitor the tunnel as rescuers worked to reach the remaining trapped workers.
