Hi Civiant!
Few days ago on 12th November, 2023 a life-threatening incidence occurred which questioned most of the civil engineers for structural design safety checks, constructability point of view, safety hazards and risk management, geotechnical investigation and the project alignment for Silkyara-Barkot Tunnel as a whole. So, I’m here to explain some major factors resulting in failure of under construction Silkyara-Barkot tunnel and lessons learnt for any tunnel collapse case as a civil engineer’s POV (Point of View).
Disclaimer – The information provided in this article is solely based on available sources and intended for information purposes only. This is not an official report and should not be construed as legal advice. This article focuses on causes of failure of tunnel collapse and gives educational knowledge as a civil engineer to improvise in design techniques resulting in safer construction industry.
We all are aware about the scenario of tunnel collapse; but to brief in the summary let me take you to the internet and social media-based information.
“On November 12, 2023, a segment of the under-construction Silkyara Bend–Barkot tunnel, intended to link National Highway 134 in the Uttarkashi district of Uttarakhand, India, collapsed. The incident took place at approximately 05:30 IST, resulting in 41 workers being trapped within the tunnel. The good thing about this rescue was zero fatality rate was achieved. A group of geologists dispatched by the Uttarakhand state government and academic institutions was assigned to the site to investigate the cause of the occurrence. As per the findings, the tunnel lacked emergency escape shafts and was constructed in a geological fault. The collapse occurred about 200 metres (660 ft) from the entrance of the tunnel, trapping 41 construction workers inside. The construction company likely failed to take adequate precautions to prevent landslides, such as using proper soil stabilization techniques.
Uttarakhand Incident Response -
“The Rescue Operation was no less in providing the quick responses contributing success to overall mission. The major prompt initiation of rescue operations was emergency services alerted immediately maximising the survival rate of trapped workers. Established a well-equipped base camp for coordination, communication & logistics management. NDRF & Indian Army played crucial role in utilising expertise in tunnelling & rescue techniques. High-powered drilling machines used to create vertical shaft for escape route. Fresh Air continuously pumped into collapsed tunnel & medical personnel stationed at base camp. Clear and consistent communication channels established which managed expectations & public trust.
Factors Affecting the Silkyara-Barkot Tunnel Collapse –
“Inadequate geological assessment with insufficient data interpretation, improper use of structural considerations or tunnel lining techniques, lack of risk mitigation study, absence of safety protocols, insufficient training for emergency scenarios, etc. The major part as a precautionary measure is to have thorough knowledge of geotechnical and geological strata with test boreholes driven in soil. Accordingly, the design aspects alter and a cost-effective solution is implemented.
Inherent Design Safety –
Design safety principles with simplified processes to reduce potential errors. A fail-safe design is redundant and strong enough backup systems to provide layers of protection.
Risk Management –
Firstly, evaluate all potential hazards throughout the project. Implement a comprehensive risk assessment process that prioritizes site-specific hazards, include geological conditions, construction activities and operational factors. Also, note high danger machinery area zones and perform activities by skilled labourers.
Establish a robust risk monitoring system to track the effectiveness of risk mitigation measures & identify any emerging hazards that require attention.
Safety Culture Propagation -
Safety related trainings that cover risk identification its assessment, safety protocols and emergency procedures. Empower workers to take ownership of work safety so as to have solution-oriented approach.
Recognise and reward individuals and their teamwork who demonstrated exemplary safety practices.
Crisis Management –
Develop a comprehensive crisis management plan that outlines roles, responsibilities, communication protocols, and emergency response procedures.
Conduct regular crisis management drills and training exercises to ensure preparedness and effective response in the event of an emergency. Ensure that there is a sufficient supply of rescue equipment and resources, guaranteeing their immediate availability and proper operational status.
Nurture a mindset of readiness for crises by highlighting the significance of being prepared for possible emergencies.
We believe that civil engineers have prime duty of their work profile to have safety culture implemented as a compulsory warning and with no compromise in design or profits! Hope you like this blog article, please do share with maximum people if you feel worth.