Uttarkashi Tunnel survivors airlifted to AIIMS-Rishikesh, under medical observation: latest updates

In a remarkable operation spanning 17 days, 41 workers were successfully rescued from Uttarakhand's Silkyara tunnel, which had collapsed. The daring rescue involved twelve "rat-hole miners" who manually carved through rock, mud, and debris. After the breakthrough, the workers were airlifted to AIIMS-Rishikesh for a thorough health check-up.

Following their evacuation, the workers were initially kept under medical observation at a hospital in Chinyalisaur. Later, they were transported to AIIMS-Rishikesh via a Chinook helicopter. District magistrate Sonika assured that medical protocols were being followed, and all workers were under observation.

Current health status:

At AIIMS-Rishikesh, the workers were admitted to wards, undergoing detailed examinations. The executive director of AIIMS-Rishikesh, Meenu Singh, reported that the workers were feeling normal, with stable vital signs. Preliminary investigations indicated normal blood parameters, and additional tests, including ECG, were planned to assess any potential effects on the heart.

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Relatives of the workers were being brought to Rishikesh, where the disaster ward at AIIMS has a capacity of 100 beds. Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami announced a cash incentive for the rescue personnel and financial aid for the rescued workers. The workers, who survived by consuming puffed rice and dripping water, shared harrowing tales of their ordeal.

Tragic loss amidst rescue:

In a poignant moment, the father of one worker in Jharkhand passed away just hours before his son's rescue. Baset Murmu had been eagerly waiting to see his son, Bhaktu Murmu, emerge from the tunnel but succumbed to a heart attack.

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The successful rescue operation has brought relief to the nation, emphasizing the resilience and courage of the workers and rescue teams involved.