By OUR STAFF REPORTER
Dehradun, 28 Nov: The Nityanand Auditorium at Doon University witnessed the much-anticipated screening of the documentary on the Silkyara rescue operation, titled ‘Reflections on Silkyara – A story of hope, resilience and leadership’ during the 19th Uttarakhand State Science and Technology Conference (USSTC). The screening coincided with the commemoration of the first anniversary of the Silkyara Vijay Abhiyan, a historic mission that saved 41 workers trapped in a tunnel collapse in November 2023.
This gripping documentary, directed by an award-winning team from Words Rhythms Images, brings to life the challenges and triumphs of the Silkyara operation. It was helmed by Producer Ajay Govind, Creative Producer Radha Bhatt, Director Mayank Rai, and shot by Cinematographer Tanweer Ahmed. The film underscores the dual challenges faced by the Uttarakhand government during this period: organising the 6th World Congress on Disaster Management (WCDM) while executing the largest multi-agency rescue operation in recent state history.
The film is enriched by insights from several dignitaries, including Lt Gen Gurmit Singh (Retd), Governor of Uttarakhand, and experts from the National Institute of Disaster Management (NIDM) and Uttarakhand Council for Science and Technology (UCOST).
Governor Lt Gen Gurmit Singh (Retd) was the Chief Guest, with the session being presided over by Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami.
The documentary highlights the leadership, collaboration, and resilience displayed during the rescue operation. It also weaves in the broader narrative of fragile Himalayan geography, showcasing the government’s efforts to blend indigenous knowledge with modern technology for building a more sustainable and disaster-resilient Uttarakhand.
Speaking about the film, Durgesh Pant, Director-General of UCOST, remarked, “Film is a powerful medium, and we believe this will be the first of our many endeavours to capture the story of exemplary leadership and resilience displayed at Silkyara.”
Radha Bhatt, Creative Producer, emphasised the compelling nature of the story: “The challenge of organising an event like WCDM while managing the well-being and rescue of 41 workers. This was a compelling story that needed to be told.”
Producer Ajay Govind added, “A story of triumph is a story of leadership at multiple levels—and we were happy to get the opportunity to tell that story.”
This documentary screening not only celebrates the success of the rescue but also serves as a learning experience for disaster management professionals and students alike, exemplifying Uttarakhand’s commitment to innovation, preparedness, and sustainability in the face of adversity.
