Dehradun News: In the wake of a section collapse in the Silkyara-Barkot tunnel in Uttarkashi on November 12, trapping 41 workers who were later rescued on November 28, the National Highways & Infrastructure Development Corporation Limited (NHIDCL) has prioritized safety measures before recommencing excavation.
Safety First: NHIDCL Aims for Comprehensive Precautions
NHIDCL project manager Col Deepak Patil (retd) emphasized the commitment to worker safety, stating, “We are taking all safety measures and securing the tunnel red zones from both Silkyara and Barkot ends. Hume pipes will be placed, escape routes will be created. Once all measures are taken to secure the sensitive areas of the tunnel, we will begin the dewatering process and subsequently treatment of the cavities. The excavation work will be initiated.”
State Oversight: NHIDCL and Navayuga Engineering Company Ltd (NECL)
The state-owned NHIDCL is overseeing the Silkyara-Barkot tunnel project, contracted to Hyderabad-based firm, Navayuga Engineering Company Ltd (NECL). The collapse occurred closer to the Silkyara side of the 4.5km tunnel, part of the broader Char Dham project, following a landslide in a zone with weak rocks. Remedial measures are expected to focus on strengthening the area to withstand future tunneling activities.
The announcement signals a cautious approach by NHIDCL, emphasizing the importance of robust safety measures before resuming excavation work on this critical infrastructure project.
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