Workers rescued from Silkyara tunnel, to be discharged today after battling sleep deprivation
Silkyara tunnel operation: Sleep deprivation emerged as the singular medical concern among the 41 rescued workers from the Silkyara tunnel, all showing signs of stabilisation in their sleep patterns. AIIMS Rishikesh intends to study this unprecedented event, conducting a six-month follow-up on the workers.
The laborers, mentally sharp and physically robust, faced sleep disruption during their 17-day confinement within the 2.5 km tunnel. Dr. Meenu Singh, Director of AIIMS Rishikesh, noted that their disorientation regarding time significantly contributed to this sleep irregularity. However, after 48 hours of observation, their sleep patterns have begun normalising, and they are set for discharge.
Efforts are underway to facilitate their return home in coordination with respective state governments by Thursday evening.
Dr. Singh emphasised the uniqueness of this rescue, stating that no precedent in medical literature matches the Silkyara tunnel incident. She attributed their survival to the workers' resilience, the government's adept crisis management ensuring provisions of essentials like oxygen, water, and sustenance, and the workers' unity in maintaining positivity and engagement throughout the ordeal. Activities like prayers, songs, and dance aided in maintaining hope.
AIIMS Rishikesh plans to scrutinize this unprecedented rescue operation, conducting a comprehensive study on each worker's health for the next six months.
- With inputs from agencies