Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami participated in the breakthrough program of the Silkyara tunnel on Wednesday. In 2023, 41 workers were trapped within 17 days during the construction of the Silkyara tunnel. After the guidance of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the rescue operation conducted under the leadership of Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami, all the workers were safely taken out.
Chief Minister Dhami congratulated all the engineers, technical experts, workers associated with the project on the occasion of Silkyara Tunnel Breakthrough. He said that it is a symbol of the success of engineering and also a living example of the power of dedication. He said that the Silkyara Tunnel campaign was the world’s most complex and longest rescue operation. Every person associated with this set a wonderful example of humanity and teamwork.
He attended the program organized on the occasion of Breakthrough of Silkyara Tunnel and addressed the public meeting. This tunnel is not only a construction project, but a strong foundation for the future of Uttarakhand.
Made at a cost of ₹ 1384 crore, this 4.50 km long tunnel is extremely important in terms of Chardham Yatra pic.twitter.com/whmtpfgnas
– Pushkar Singh Dhami (@PushKardhami) April 16, 2025
The whole world was eyeing the rescue campaign
Chief Minister Dhami said that the whole world was eyeing the Silakyara campaign. With the guidance of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and full support of the Government of India, the state government successfully conducted this challenging campaign. In this rescue campaign, the support of modern resources and experts available in the country and the world was also taken. The Chief Minister said that the patience that the laborers trapped in the tunnel showed, this encouraged us.
Chief Minister Dhami also participated in the Pran Pratishtha program at the Baba Bakhnag temple on this occasion. For Pran Pratishtha at Baukhnath Temple, the Chief Minister reached Silkyara with his house in Dehradun with a gift and worship material. For the safe rescue of workers trapped in the Silkyara tunnel, the Chief Minister himself camp during the Silkyara campaign and continued monitoring and directing the rescue campaign. For the success of the rescue campaign, the Chief Minister had resolved to build the temple by asking Baba Boukhanag to a vow.
Wishing the happiness and prosperity of the people of the state
The Chief Minister prayed to Baba Boukhanag for the prosperity of the state and the happiness and prosperity of the people. He said that when Baba Boukhanag enshrined on the face of the tunnel, the trapped laborers could be taken out. At that time, he had announced to build a grand temple of Baba Boukhanag. Today, due to the prestige of the temple, the resolution has also been fulfilled and the devotees will also be able to receive the blessings of Baba Boukhanag.
Important announcements of Chief Minister Dhami
- Action will be taken to name Silakyara Tunnel in the name of Baba Boukhanag.
- Primary Health Center Ganwala-Brahmkhal will be made a community health center.
- The Bakhnag Tibba will be developed as a tourist center.
- Helipad will be constructed near Syalna.
Union Minister of State Ajay Tamta, MLA Suresh Chauhan, Durgeshwar Lal, Sanjay Doval, Managing Director National Highway Dr. Krishna Kumar, District Magistrate Uttarkashi Dr. Meharban Singh Bisht, SP Sarita Doval, public representatives and officers were present on the occasion.