19 NHPC workers trapped in tunnel after landslide in Uttarakhands Pithoragarh, rescue operations underway
At least 19 workers of the National Hydroelectric Power Corporation (NHPC) were trapped inside a tunnel of an under-construction power project in Dharchula, Pithoragarh district. This incident occurred after a landslide triggered by heavy rainfall blocked its entrance on Friday.
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New Delhi: At least 19 workers of the National Hydroelectric Power Corporation (NHPC) were trapped inside a tunnel of an under-construction power project in Dharchula, Pithoragarh district. This incident occurred after a landslide triggered by heavy rainfall blocked its entrance on Friday.
Pithoragarh Superintendent of Police Rekha Yadav said as quoted by and Hindustan Times, that the workers remain in constant touch with the administration and the company. "Large boulders have blocked the tunnel’s mouth. Efforts are underway to clear the debris. JCB machines have been dispatched to the spot for rescue operations,” she said.
Landslide triggered due to heavy rain
Deputy District Magistrate Jitendra Verma said that despite continuous falling of debris, machines from the Border Roads Organisation (BRO) are working to clear the way.
According to reports, the landslide occurred due to heavy rains in the region. It damaged the upper portion of the tunnel. Debris has accumulated in the waste disposal tunnel that connects to the river.
District Magistrate Vinod Giri Goswami told reporters that 19 people were initially trapped. "Eight workers have been rescued so far, while 11 are still inside. The situation is under control, and rescue efforts are progressing. We are confident that the remaining workers will be evacuated soon,” he said.
NHPC has described the incident as a case of "partial damage" to the structure. It has further assured that the structure will be repaired quickly. Rescue operations are being conducted with full urgency.