TFP Bureau, New Delhi; Nov 23, 2023: In a reassuring turn of events, workers trapped inside the Silkyara tunnel in Uttarkashi district, Uttarakhand, have communicated with their families, urging them not to panic and expressing confidence in a soon-to-come reunion. The incident, which has seen 41 workers confined for the past 10 days, offers a glimmer of hope as family members hear directly from their loved ones inside the tunnel.
Messages of Reassurance
Indrajit Kumar, a resident of Giridih, Jharkhand, spoke with his younger brother Vishwajeet and relative Subodh Kumar, both trapped within the tunnel. Indrajit shared, “They (laborers) told me not to panic; we will meet outside soon. Today (Wednesday) I heard his voice. They told me it was only a matter of hours.” The messages conveyed by the trapped workers have brought relief and hope to families who have been anxiously waiting for their loved ones.
A Unifying Message
Devashish, a family member of one of the trapped laborers, mentioned that almost every worker inside the tunnel had a similar message for their families. His brother-in-law, Sonu Shah, reassured him, saying, “Today (Wednesday) we were taken inside the tunnel, and we talked to our family members. Sonu repeatedly told me not to worry now, and that we will meet soon.” Devashish expressed optimism, stating that the workers conveyed hope for a speedy resolution to their predicament.
Family’s Journey to Discovery
The families of the trapped workers had been camping near the tunnel, anxiously awaiting news. Devashish shared his experience, revealing that they had called Sonu on Diwali but couldn’t reach him. It was later discovered that Sonu’s mobile phone was damaged. Devashish’s family learned about Sonu being trapped inside the tunnel when they saw his name in the newspaper. Sonu, who has been working in the tunnel for three years, has a wife and a one-year-old daughter residing in Chapra, Bihar.
Rescue Efforts Progressing
Rescue team officials reported that rescue workers have inserted approximately 45 meters wide pipes into the debris, with around 12 more meters of excavation remaining to reach the trapped workers. Authorities have diligently arranged for health facilities to be provided to the workers once they are safely extracted through the pipes. The ongoing efforts aim to bring relief to the workers and their families, fostering optimism amid the challenging situation.
