By Our Staff Reporter
Uttarkashi, 16 Apr: Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami participated in the breakthrough ceremony of the Silkyara Tunnel here today. The tunnel connects Silkyara Bend with Barkot. The event holds special significance as it recalls the harrowing incident during the tunnel’s construction in 2023, when 41 workers were trapped for 17 days following a sudden landslide. All the trapped workers were successfully rescued in a challenging operation carried out under the guidance of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the leadership of CM Dhami, showcasing remarkable coordination and resolve.
The Silkyara Tunnel, a significant project costing approximately Rs 1384 crores, will reduce the distance between Gangotri and Yamunotri Dham by 25 kilometres. The government also claims that this double-lane tunnel, spanning 4.531 kilometres, will enhance the Char Dham Yatra experience by saving time and providing better facilities for pilgrims. The project is also expected to boost local tourism, business, and employment, thereby strengthening the regional economy.
It may be recalled that, during its construction in 2023, a sudden landslide had trapped 41 workers inside the tunnel for 17 days. Under the guidance of PM Modi and the leadership of CM Dhami, a complex and challenging rescue operation was successfully conducted, showcasing advanced engineering and human resolve. The CM who personally monitored the operation, expressed gratitude to the rescue teams, including NDRF, SDRF, and rat miners, for their exemplary teamwork and dedication.
In a gesture of faith and gratitude for the successful rescue operation, the CM had then announced construction of a temple dedicated to Baba Baukhnag, whose blessings were sought during the rescue operation. Today, he also participated in the Pran Pratishtha ceremony at the newly constructed Baba Baukhnag temple. On this occasion, he also prayed for the prosperity and well-being of the state and its people, emphasising the spiritual significance of the temple.
On this occasion, the CM also announced plans to name the Silkyara Tunnel after Baba Baukhnag. Additionally, he proposed the development of Baukhnag Tibba as a tourist centre, the construction of a helipad near Syalna, and the upgrade of the Primary Health Centre at Genwala-Brahmakhal to a Community Health Centre.
Union Minister of State Ajay Tamta, MLAs Suresh Chauhan, Durgeshwar Lal and Sanjay Dobhal, along with NHIDCL Managing Director Krishna Kumar, District Magistrate Meherban Singh Bisht, SP Sarita Dobhal, and other dignitaries, were among those present at the event.
