SILKYARA: Even as rescue personnel from various national and state agencies work tirelessly, despite facing back-to-back hiccups in drilling, to evacuate 41 workers stranded in Uttarkashi’s Silkyara tunnel for the past 15 days, some volunteers have come forward to do their bit.Sameer Karimba, 41, from Karimba village in Palakkad region of Keralahas been at the spot since November 21 to volunteer in the rescue.Even though he’s not involved in the technical part of the operation, he’s been allowed to do other work of his choice.

Karimba helps police andITBP personnel by arranging bonfires for them during their night shifts.

He organises essentials like water bottles and food for families of trapped workers.Sameer, a lumberjack, told TOI: “I was 10 years old when I saw a bus accident in my village.

While all the elderly people rushed to rescue the victims, I couldn’t do much despite the best intentions, as I was too young.

All I could do was distribute water bottles to the injured.”He added, “That incident left a deep impact on me and as I grew older, it fuelled my desire to help people in crisis.

I learnt several rescue skills such as climbing, first aid and even catching snakes.” Sameer has decided to stay in Silkyara till all the workers are pulled out and has brought some rescue equipment with him, in case the need arises.Similarly, Hans Foundation, a social organisation, is providing free food and warm clothes to people.Uttarkashi Tunnel Collapse Latest News: Plan B of Rescue Operation after US-made Auger Machine FailsWatchNDMA reveals six rescue plans for trapped workers in Uttarkashi's Silkyara Tunnel collapse