Uttarakhand tunnel rescue operation nears completion; Estimated time frame: 12-14 Hours

The rescue operation for the trapped workers in the Uttarakhand tunnel collapse is expected to conclude within the next 12-14 hours, according to Bhaskar Khulbe, former advisor to the prime minister's office. This marks the first time a specific timeframe has been provided for the rescue effort. Khulbe mentioned that reaching the 41 trapped workers will take an additional three hours to bring them out individually.

A significant development in the rescue process occurred as workers removed an iron mesh obstructing the drillers' path. This mesh had been a challenging obstacle, causing delays in the operation due to the confined environment inside the pipe. Currently, only 6 meters of drilling separate the rescue team from the trapped workers.

In anticipation of the post-rescue phase, Uttarkashi administration and other agencies have made extensive preparations. The administration has positioned 41 ambulances outside the tunnel, ready to provide immediate medical assistance to the rescued workers.

Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami stated, "The rescue is at its final stages. There are some obstacles, but I hope that the workers are rescued as early as possible. Post-rescue preparations have been done. Ambulances and hospitals are ready for their check-up and treatment." Chief Minister Dhami highlighted the continuous updates provided to Prime Minister Modi, who remains informed about the ongoing rescue efforts.