All 41 workers trapped in the Silkayara Tunnel have been successfully rescued. However, the celebration is clouded by accusations against Navayuga, the company that employed the workers, for using subpar materials that allegedly put lives at risk.
The Human Resources Head of Navayuga, Rajeev, strongly denied these claims, assuring that worker safety and quality work are top priorities for the firm. In an interview with The New Indian he stated, “No substandard raw materials have ever been used, there’s a strong emphasis on safety and quality.”
According to Rajeev, Navayuga is also extending support to the rescued workers. The company is providing logistical help in the form of transport and stay, alongside a 2 lakh bonus to all those who were stuck inside the tunnel. The HR Head said, “We are pleased to announce an extra payment of 2 lakhs without discrimination—it applies to all employees, whether permanent or contractual.”
Rajeev added that Navayuga is working with state governments to ensure smooth transportation for the workers and their families. In states like Uttar Pradesh, they are organising transport from the hospital, and in Jharkhand and West Bengal, similar arrangements are being made. The HR Head assured, “We are organising transportation from Rishikesh AIIMS Hospital to the airport or wherever needed. Coordination is crucial as some flights are scheduled for tomorrow.”
The company is also contacting respective state governments to help these workers and their families. He said, “We are in touch with all the nodal officers of the respective state governments, and UP government has assured us of organising road transportation from the hospital. State governments of Jharkhand and WB has also orchestrated transportation from the hospital.”