The Uttarakhand tunnel collapse in Silkyara brought to light some causes. The critical role of India’s jugaad system in the disaster was one of the things. and the inherent risks associated with it. Jugaad in India is a term synonymous with innovative problem-solving and improvisation. It seems to have played a significant role in the rescue efforts. But it also raises questions about the safety and sustainability of such practices.
The collapse occurred on November 12, 2023, trapping 41 workers inside the tunnel. The rescue operation lasted for 17 days. It involved a combination of advanced machinery and traditional jugaad techniques. Rat-hole mining is a primitive method involving narrow pits dug by hand. This was instrumental in saving the trapped workers. The precarious nature of relying on such methods in critical situations was seen.
Arnold Dix, an Australian expert aided in the rescue. He pointed out that the scars of 21 prior collapses were evident, yet work continued unabated. This raises concerns about the safety protocols and the pressure to meet deadlines. This is often at the expense of structural integrity1. Dix also mentioned the celebrated cultural ethos of jugaad. While jugaad was commendable for ingenuity, it may have contributed to the disaster.
The Uttarakhand tunnel collapse exposed the faults in infrastructure projects in disaster-prone areas. Jugaad has its merits in improvising solutions under challenging conditions. But it should not replace rigorous engineering standards and safety measures. The reliance on jugaad can lead to shortcuts and compromises. This will endanger lives and compromise the longevity of projects.
Moreover, the incident highlights the broader issue of illegal mining. There is a lack of stringent regulations in certain regions. The Silkyara tunnel collapse is not an isolated case. Similar incidents have occurred in other parts of India. Illegal mining practices in Assam have led to fatalities and environmental degradation. Strengthening regulatory frameworks is essential to prevent such tragedies in the future.