Uttarkashi tunnel collapse: These operations are like a war, timelines put pressure on rescuers, says NDMA
PTC News Desk: The rescue operation underway at Uttarkashi's Silkyara tunnel, where 41 workers remain trapped, is like a "war" and no such specific timelines should be assumed by anyone, stated Member of the National Disaster Management Authority, Lt General (Rtd) Syed Ata Hasnain on Thursday. "This is challenging work. To keep expecting that rescue will be done in the next two hours puts pressure on the workforce," he added.
According to an NDMA member, this operation is similar to a war situation in which one is constantly guessing about enemy moves. He went on to say that 'Himalayan geology' is the enemy in this operation."
Syed Ata Hasnain, speaking at a press conference in New Delhi, said, "Many experts are giving opinions that they might be rescued today evening, tomorrow morning, but remember these operations are like war. These operations should not be given a timeline. In wars, we don't know how will the enemy react. Here Himalayan geology is our enemy. From which angles the tunnel has collapsed we don't know."
Hasnain stated that such timelines put pressure on the rescue team, saying, "This is challenging work. To keep expecting that rescue will be done in the next two hours puts pressure on the workforce. This is wrong. In this situation, both the trapped workers and the rescue team are at risk. We have to cater for the safety of both."
He also stated that the NDRF is practising at the site of the rescue operations. "NDRF DG is himself present there. NDRF is rehearsing the evacuation process for the workers. The government is also providing support in every way possible."
However, in response to a reporter's question, an NDMA member estimated that the rescue operation could be completed in 4 to 5 hours and could be extended until tomorrow afternoon, depending on the situation in the tunnel.
- ANI
