A section of a tunnel being constructed on the Brahmakhal-Yamunotri highway, between Silkyara and Dandalgaon in Uttarkashi district, Uttarakhand, collapsed early on Sunday.

Approximately 36 workers were reportedly trapped following the collapse of a 150-meter segment in the four-and-a-half-kilometre-long tunnel around 4 am.

Uttarkashi Superintendent of Police, Arpan Yaduvanshi, promptly arrived at the scene upon receiving information and initiated a relief and rescue operation.

The National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), fire brigade, and personnel from the National Highways and Infrastructure Development Corporation Limited (NHIDCL), the organization overseeing the tunnel construction, are also involved in the rescue efforts.

According to Arpan Yaduvanshi, a portion of the Silkyara Tunnel, located about 200 meters from the entrance, collapsed.

NHIDCL officials reported that approximately 36 individuals are trapped inside, and concerted efforts are underway to ensure their safe rescue. No casualties have been reported thus far.

Around 200 meters of the tunnel have caved in, with 40 to 41 workers trapped inside.

Oxygen was being supplied through the debris, but ongoing efforts to clear the obstruction are causing additional rubble to descend, according to Durgesh Rathodi, a state disaster response official.

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Government rescue team photographs depict significant piles of concrete obstructing the wide tunnel, with twisted metal bars from the broken roof protruding in front of the debris.

Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami expressed hope for the safe rescue of the trapped workers and urged prayers for their well-being on social media.

It is noteworthy that accidents are commonplace on large infrastructure construction sites in India. Once completed, the all-weather tunnel, part of the Char Dham Road Project, will reduce the journey from Uttarkashi to Yamunotri Dham by 26 kilometers.