THDC has concluded the search and rescue operation at the Tail Race Tunnel (TRT) of the Vishnugad–Pipalkoti Hydroelectric Project (VPHEP), following the tragic incident on August 13.
New Delhi: THDC India Limited (THDCIL) has concluded the search and rescue operation at the Tail Race Tunnel (TRT) of the Vishnugad–Pipalkoti Hydroelectric Project (VPHEP), following the tragic incident on August 13.
At the time of the incident, 22 workers deployed or associated with the main executing agency, Hindustan Construction Company (HCC), were present inside the tunnel. Of these, 12 workers were safely evacuated and admitted to hospitals for treatment, while seven workers lost their lives.
Three workers were initially reported missing. The body of one missing worker was recovered on August 15, while the bodies of the other two workers were recovered on August 18, marking the conclusion of the search and rescue operation.
THDCIL conveyed its condolences to the families of the workers who lost their lives and said it remains committed to providing all possible assistance to the affected families. The corporation also stated that appropriate treatment and necessary medical assistance are being provided to the injured workers.
Following the incident, a joint relief and rescue operation was undertaken by teams from the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), Central Industrial Security Force (CISF), District Administration, THDCIL and HCC.
The teams worked continuously to dewater the tunnel, clear debris and enable the safe movement of search and rescue personnel. Senior officials, including the Managing Director of THDCIL, regularly monitored the operation and coordinated efforts among the participating agencies.
THDCIL also expressed its appreciation to all the agencies, rescue teams and personnel who supported the relief and rescue efforts.