Uttarkashi tunnel collapse: Rescue operation halted after snag, cracking sound Uttarkashi tunnel collapse: Rescue operation halted after snag, cracking sound

The state-run National Highways and Infrastructure Development Corporation (NHIDCL) stated that a "large-scale cracking sound" was heard during efforts to restart the drilling machine. The sound "created a panic situation in the tunnel and the team working.

Similar sounds have been noted previously and there was a "strong possibility of further collapse", the report said, adding that a meeting to discuss further steps in the rescue effort has been called.