Uttarkashi Rescue Operation: Process of Removing Auger Machine is Underway

In a race against time to rescue trapped workers within an under-construction tunnel, efforts are underway to extract the Auger machine from the debris by utilizing a plasma cutter machine. The ongoing process involves removing both smaller and larger debris pieces from the auger machine stuck inside the tunnel, with only 10.9 meters of the machine remaining in the pipeline.

Micro-tunnelling expert Chris Cooper provided insights into the rescue operation, emphasizing the efficiency of the plasma-cutting machine, which was brought in from Hyderabad to expedite the removal of debris separating rescuers from the trapped workers. Cooper explained that the plasma machine ability to cut through steel blades stuck in the rubble significantly accelerates the process.

"We are still in the process of removing the Auger (driller) from inside the tunnel. The plasma machine will help us in this task as it will cut through the steel (blades stuck in the rubble) faster. The plasma machine cuts the steel much faster," stated Cooper.

When questioned about the timeline for removing the auger blades and machine from the rubble, Cooper acknowledged the uncertainty, noting that it depends on the size of the debris pieces being extracted. The specially requisitioned plasma cutter, flown in from Hyderabad, commenced its work on Sunday morning to aid in removing the heavy-duty drilling machine and the lodged auger blades from the tunnel.

The rescue operation became imperative after a section of the tunnel collapsed on November 12, causing debris to block a 60-meter stretch on the Silkyara side of the tunnel and trapping 41 laborers inside the under-construction structure.