Srinagar May 20 (KNS): Jammu Kashmir Apni Party (JKAP) president Syed Mohammad Altaf Bukhari has expressed his grief over the death of a labourer who had got trapped inside an under-construction tunnel on the highway near Khooni Nallah in Ramban on Thursday night. He prayed for the safe evacuation of those who are still inside the tunnel.

Pertinently, officials have confirmed that one body has already been recovered from the debris while at least ten persons are missing. The rescue operation is going on.

In a statement issued here, Syed Altaf Bukhari said, “I was shocked to know about the tragedy that occurred yesterday night in Ramban. I offer my deepest sympathies to the family of the deceased labourer, and I pray that everyone is safely evacuated from the debris of the collapsed tunnel.”

He added, “One can imagine the pain that the families, whose kith and kin are trapped inside the broken tunnel, must be going through at this time. On such accidents, words fall short to express our sorrow over the casualties and our sympathies with the affected families.”

Apni party leader urged Lieutenant Governor (LG) administration to ensure the family of the deceased labourers gets the compensation immediately, and those who got injured in this incident are provided with the best treatment and all possible help from the government.

He also suggested that an inquiry should be initiated to ascertain the scientific reasons for the collapse of the tunnel. He said, “Only after a proper enquiry, the experts from the geology and engineering fields would be able to make us understand what led to this unfortunate incident. Knowing the reasons for the mishap would enable us to take precautionary measures to evade such tragedies in the future. (KNS)