After the loco train collision inside the under-construction Vishnugad–Pipalkoti hydropower project tunnel, THDC India Limited has decided to conduct a comprehensive review of all safety arrangements at the site. The incident, which occurred on December 30 inside the tunnel being built on the Alaknanda river, has been taken seriously by the project authorities.
THDC has constituted an internal investigation committee to examine the causes of the accident and assess lapses in operational safety. Project General Manager Ajay Verma said that safety systems are being strengthened further to ensure that such incidents are not repeated. At present, around three kilometers of tunnel construction work is still pending.
According to THDC, nearly 70 workers and staff members were injured in the loco train accident. After primary treatment, 61 injured were brought to hospitals, while eight were initially admitted. Following recovery, three were discharged, and as of Thursday, only five personnel remain hospitalized. THDC has stated that all admitted workers are being provided full medical facilities under company management.
Following the incident, Chamoli District Magistrate Gaurav Kumar and Superintendent of Police Surjeet Singh Panwar inspected the tunnel site and reviewed safety arrangements, particularly near the TBM section. Instructions were issued to strengthen safety measures and identify the exact causes of the collision.
Tunnel construction work has been temporarily halted as police and district administration have initiated a detailed investigation. Deputy Superintendent of Police Madan Singh Bisht inspected the TBM site on Thursday, while SDM Chamoli Rajkumar Pandey is scheduled to conduct further inspection. During the magisterial inquiry, both TBM-based and manual work inside the tunnel will remain suspended.
THDC officials also confirmed that the loco train operator involved in the accident was an employee of Hindustan Construction Company (HCC) and had joined the Vishnugad project only a month ago. His services have been terminated, and on the instructions of the District Magistrate, he has been barred from leaving the station until the magisterial investigation is completed.
