Washington - Shri Thanedar, an Indian American Congressman, has called upon the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) to promptly extend aid in the ongoing rescue operations in Uttarakhand, India. This region witnessed the collapse of the Silkyara Tunnel on November 12, and despite local rescue teams working tirelessly, challenging conditions have impeded progress.

A trenchless tunneling approach was initiated on Tuesday, involving efforts to drill through debris, but the success of this operation remains uncertain.

Expressing concern, Thanedar emphasized that the Uttarakhand incident is not merely a local crisis but a global humanitarian issue demanding immediate attention and action. Given the advanced technology and expertise in rescue operations, the United States possesses the capability to significantly impact these efforts and potentially save lives, according to Thanedar.

Having strong ties with India, Thanedar feels a deep sense of responsibility to ensure that the United States plays a pivotal role during this crisis. He believes that American involvement could not only contribute to immediate rescue efforts but also strengthen the robust relationship between the US and India.

In light of the urgency, Thanedar has formally requested USAID to engage directly with India to explore potential avenues for US assistance. He has also sought regular updates on any developments and actions taken by USAID in response to the situation. Recognizing the immediate need for support for the trapped individuals and their families, Congressman Thanedar is determined to leverage his influence to facilitate international cooperation and aid those in distress.