Uttarakhand's Chamoli Tunnel Tragedy: 7 Workers Dead, 3 Missing As Rescue Intensifies

Seven workers were killed and three remained missing on Friday after water and debris suddenly flooded an under-construction tunnel at the Vishnugad-Pipalkoti hydroelectric project in Uttarakhand's Chamoli district, triggering a massive rescue operation.

The incident occurred on Thursday evening at Mayapur near Pipalkoti, when landslides and ground subsidence caused water and debris to rush into the tunnel, trapping workers inside. Of the 22 people present, 12 have been rescued alive, seven bodies recovered and three remain missing, according to the latest update from the NDRF.

Rescue operations have become increasingly difficult as parts of the tunnel remain submerged under five to six feet of water, with fresh water continuing to flow in. Low oxygen levels, accumulated sludge and the threat of further landslides are adding to the challenge. Continuous rainfall has also hampered the operation.

Teams from the NDRF, SDRF, ITBP, CISF, state police and district administration are working to reach the missing workers. Heavy equipment and pumping arrangements are being used to clear debris and reduce water levels as rescuers race against time.

Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami reached Pipalkoti to review the operation and directed officials to mobilise every available resource. He has also monitored the treatment of injured workers.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed concern over the tragedy and assured that all possible assistance was being extended for the rescue operation. He praised the courage of those rescued and said efforts were continuing to bring the remaining workers to safety.

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh expressed grief over the loss of lives and prayed for the speedy recovery of the injured and the safe rescue of those still trapped.

Jharkhand Chief Minister Hemant Soren also spoke with Dhami, particularly concerned about workers from Jharkhand involved in the incident, and sought updates on their safety.

The immediate priority remains reaching the three missing workers amid rising water, unstable ground and difficult conditions inside the tunnel.