Silkyara tunnel rescue operation: Tunnelling expert narrates rescue operation, 'Advocated rat-hole mining strategy after...'
Silkyara tunnel rescue operation: Arnold Dix, a tunnelling expert involved in the Silkyara tunnel rescue in Uttarakhand, detailed the cautious approach and 'rat hole' mining tactics that led to the successful 17-day operation. Downplaying his role, he emphasised teamwork and careful decision-making as pivotal to the rescue.
"I'm not the main brain; I'm just one part," Dix humbly clarified, attributing the success to collective efforts. He stressed the need for a cautious drilling approach, opting for a meticulous hand-digging method to prevent mountain destabilisation. Dix foresaw the effectiveness of 'rat hole' mining, despite its ban, due to the mountain's reactions to heavy machinery.
Initial efforts using large earth drilling machines proved perilous, causing vibrations that risked landslides. Challenges like these led to careful deliberations among experts, considering each action's pros and cons. Dix highlighted the balance between multiple rescue plans, considering data from various sources to safeguard lives, the environment, and rescuers.
Despite criticism for the slow progress, Dix emphasised prioritising lives and environment preservation. The rescue's success, achieved through careful planning and 'rat hole' miners' efforts, brought tears of joy to Dix, affirming his unwavering hope for a safe return of the trapped workers.
Downplaying his pivotal role, Dix acknowledged being part of a fantastic team. He narrated the rescued men's eventual emergence and credited the softly-softly approach as the key to their safety.
Expressing gratitude, he reflected on receiving the government's call and immediately agreeing to help, asserting that such actions define goodwill. Before concluding, Dix paid his respects at a makeshift temple near the tunnel entrance, a gesture of gratitude and acknowledgment for the successful rescue effort.
- With inputs from agencies
