September 25, 2024: A final probe report into the Silkyara tunnel collapse in Uttarakhand has identified significant negligence among multiple agencies involved in the project, including the Detailed Project Report (DPR) preparers, the construction firm, the supervising consultant, and the National Highway and Infrastructure Development Corporation (NHIDCL).

The investigation, led by former Border Road Organisation Director General R.K. Dhiman, concluded that the alignment of the tunnel did not adhere to fundamental tunneling principles. Alarmingly, it found that the contractor failed to adequately address 21 minor collapses, even after they were flagged by the Authority Engineer (AE).

The panel, which submitted its findings to the Ministry of Road Transport last week, emphasized the lack of coordination and communication among stakeholders. This oversight, according to the report, contributed to the tragic incident, which raised serious concerns about the management and oversight of infrastructure projects.

In response to these findings, the panel has recommended that the government consider disciplinary action against responsible personnel and officers, pending a thorough inquiry into the matter.