Wayanad Tunnel Tragedy: All 8 Missing Workers Found

The intensive multi-agency search operation at the Wayanad tunnel construction site has officially concluded following the recovery of the final missing worker's body on Sunday. Bikram Rana, the construction manager and a native of Himachal Pradesh, was the last of the eight individuals reported missing after the devastating landslip on July 7.

Personnel from the NDRF and fire and rescue services located Rana's body approximately 150 meters from Meenakshi Bridge, in a cardamom plantation along the Meenakshi River. The search was concentrated in this area after an injured safety engineer indicated Rana might be trapped there. Cadaver dogs played a crucial role, confirming the presence of a body.

The operation involved multiple teams, including the Turkey Jeevan Raksha Samithi and other volunteers, supported by earthmovers and specialized dogs. A recent break in the rain significantly facilitated the efforts over the past two days. Rana's body was identified by his brothers and subsequently transported for a postmortem examination before being handed over for air transport to his native place.

Authorities confirmed that the removal of mud and debris from the road will continue in the coming days. Bikram Rana, who had been with Dilip Buildcon for over five years, was overseeing the Wayanad tunnel project for the last 14 months. He is survived by his wife, son, and daughter.