• Source:JND
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A section of the under-construction tunnel on the Brahmakhal-Yamunotri national highway in Uttarkashi collapsed on Sunday morning, trapping over 36 workers inside. A massive rescue operation was launched by the National Disaster Response Force, State Disaster Response Force, fire brigade, and personnel from the National Highways and Infrastructure Development Corporation Limited (NHIDCL) after the mishap.

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Updates:

-The incident took place while the shift of construction workers was changing. The night shift workers were moving out while the morning shift workers were going inside. During the process, the soil began descending downward at the entry point of the tunnel, which led to the sinking of the tunnel. Over 36 workers got trapped under the debris.

-Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami has directed the officials to expedite the relief and rescue operation.

- Project manager Rajesh Panwar said the workers trapped inside the tunnel have conveyed a signal by turning on the water motor. Thus, it has been assumed that they are still alive.

- The rescue teams are vehemently removing the debris and the vertical drilling machine has reached the accident spot to expedite the process. An escape passage is being constructed for the evacuation of workers.

- Oxygen supply has been ensured to the trapped workers through pipes spread for water supply. A helpline number has also been issued.

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- District Magistrate Abhishek Ruhela said their prime focus is to ensure the safe evacuation of all the workers, adding that a comprehensive operation was launched to push this through.

- The District Magistrate has cancelled the leaves of all the officers of the district, asking them to report to their respective workplaces.