Rat Hole Mining Technique: Its Role In Uttarakhand Tunnel Collapse

28 November 2023

By: girish kumar anshul

Rat hole mining is a method of extracting coal.  It involves digging small, vertical holes into the ground and then creating narrow tunnels to reach the coal.

What is Rat Hole Mining?

- The Uttarakhand tunnel collapsed on 12 November 2023. - The incident also brought to light the unconventional rescue technique known as rat hole mining.

Uttarakhand Tunnel Collapse

- Rat hole mining allows for direct access to specific points within the collapsed tunnel. - It reduces the risk of further collapse. - It requires minimal space on the surface, making it suitable for tight rescue operations.

Why Use Rat Hole Mining Technique in Rescue Efforts?

- Rescue teams carefully planned the location and direction of the shafts to reach the trapped workers efficiently. - Specialised equipment was used to drill vertical shafts through the debris.

Implementing Rat Hole Mining Technique in Uttarakhand

- Rescuers faced the challenge of working in tight, cramped spaces with limited oxygen and difficult maneuverability.

Challenges and Limitations of Rat Hole Mining

– The rat hole mining technique played a crucial role in the Uttarakhand tunnel collapse rescue, providing direct access to the trapped workers.

Rat Hole Mining: Saviour In Uttarakhand Tunnel Collapse