Silkyara tunnel collapse: CM Dhami reviews safety measures, orders immediate worker compensation
Dehradun, July 16
Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami on Wednesday night took stock of the Silkyara Tunnel accident from Secretary, Disaster Management and Rehabilitation, Vinod Kumar Suman, after a portion of the tunnel's shotcrete lining collapsed. The Chief Minister said the state government remains fully committed to ensuring the safety and security of workers.
On the Chief Minister's directions, Secretary Vinod Kumar Suman sought a detailed report from NHIDCL and the district administration and reviewed the relief, rescue, and safety measures being undertaken. He also assessed the safety protocols in place inside the tunnel and reviewed the existing safety inspection mechanisms.
Secretary Vinod Kumar Suman said the Chief Minister expressed deep grief over the incident and directed officials to ensure that the deceased worker's family receives the prescribed compensation without delay. He also instructed that the mortal remains be transported to the victim's native district with full dignity and that every possible assistance be extended to the bereaved family.
During the review meeting, the Secretary sought a detailed account of the circumstances leading to the accident and discussed additional measures to prevent such incidents in the future. He directed the concerned authorities to conduct a thorough investigation into every aspect of the incident and to reassess all technical and safety standards.
The Secretary also carried out a comprehensive review of the existing Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) governing tunnel construction and operations. He directed officials to undertake a detailed revision of the SOPs in view of the prevailing conditions and potential risks, ensuring that the updated procedures are practical, effective, and clearly defined for all concerned agencies to facilitate swift and coordinated action during emergencies.
He further instructed the district administration, SDRF, NDRF, Fire Services, the Disaster Management Department, and other technical and executing agencies to work in close coordination while updating the SOPs. He directed that all tunnel sections and structures vulnerable to collapse or damage be subjected to special inspections.
Potential risk zones should be identified immediately, and necessary preventive and protective measures must be implemented to ensure the safety of workers and all personnel engaged in the tunnel project remains the highest priority.
— ANI
Reader Comments
I'm glad to see the Indian government taking this seriously. Revising SOPs and conducting special inspections is exactly what's needed. But I hope these measures aren't just for show - the real test will be in the implementation. Workers' lives shouldn't be compromised for infrastructure development.
Uttarakhand is such a disaster-prone state with all these tunnels being built in the Himalayas. Every time we hear about a collapse, it's the poor workers who suffer. The compensation should be at least Rs 50 lakhs for the family, and immediate medical help for any injured. Dhami ji, please ensure strict monitoring of all ongoing projects. 🏔️
A thorough investigation is welcome, but honestly, how many more reports do we need? The real issue is that construction companies often cut corners on safety to save costs. If the government actually penalizes NHIDCL and the contractors heavily for lapses, only then will we see real change. Otherwise it's just another inquiry report gathering dust.
As someone who worked on tunnel projects in the hills, I can tell you that the geology in Uttarakhand is extremely tricky. You have to constantly monitor for loose rock and water seepage. The SOPs need to account for local conditions, not just generic guidelines. Good to see the government is finally paying attention to the ground realities. 💪
It's heartbreaking that a worker lost his life in this accident. My condolences to the family. I appreciate CM Dhami's quick response, but I really hope the compensation reaches the family immediately - not after months
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