Uttarkashi, 16 July (H.S.): A worker was killed in an accident inside the under-construction Silkyara Tunnel in Uttarkashi district during the intervening night of Wednesday and Thursday. The fatal incident occurred at around 2:00 a.m. when a section of the tunnel's concrete shotcrete lining collapsed.
According to preliminary information, a block of the concrete lining fell approximately 900 metres inside the tunnel from the Barkot side, fatally trapping a 21-year-old worker from Jharkhand. He died at the scene.
According to the Uttarkashi District Emergency Operations Centre, rescue and relief operations were launched immediately after the incident. The worker's body has since been recovered from the tunnel.
The National Highways and Infrastructure Development Corporation Limited (NHIDCL) has initiated a detailed investigation into the incident, and a factual report is being prepared. The district administration and other concerned agencies have also begun separate inquiries.
Officials said safety arrangements at the tunnel construction site are being thoroughly reviewed. The victim's family has been informed of the tragedy.
Taking cognisance of the incident, District Magistrate Prashant Arya directed the Sub-Divisional Magistrate (SDM) of Barkot to immediately reach the site. He instructed the SDM to conduct a comprehensive assessment of the situation, investigate the exact cause of the accident, and carry out an in-depth review of the safety standards being followed by the executing agency.
The District Magistrate also directed officials to provide all possible assistance to the bereaved family and ensure that all necessary legal formalities are completed without delay. He further instructed authorities to take immediate measures to ensure the safety of all other workers engaged inside the tunnel.
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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar
