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Following the recent mishap at the Silkyara tunnel, the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) has taken proactive measures to enhance safety protocols. NHAI Chairman Santosh Yadav has directed officials to conduct a safety audit for all 29 under-construction tunnels across the country. This comprehensive audit will involve collaboration with regional officers, project directors, and independent consultants to ensure a thorough assessment.
The cumulative length of tunnels under construction by NHAI currently stands at 79 km, with Himachal Pradesh having the highest count of 12 tunnels, followed by six in Jammu and Kashmir. In light of previous instances of cave-ins at the construction sites of tunnels in Jammu and Kashmir, the safety audit aims to identify and address potential risks promptly.
In the second phase, NHAI plans to extend the safety audit to include all completed tunnels, further emphasizing its commitment to ensuring the highest safety standards in tunnel construction and operation.
Responding to queries about the need to reevaluate tunnel construction plans, particularly in hilly states, Road Transport & Highways Secretary Anurag Jain reassured that Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) are already in place. He emphasized that if necessary, the government will reassess and adjust the plans accordingly to ensure the safety and integrity of tunnel infrastructure in the country. |
