Authorities are relieved after over 30 construction workers in a tunnel in Los Angeles managed to reach safety following a partial collapse. The incident occurred between a tunnel boring machine that was five miles from the entrance and another worker about six miles away.
At the time of the collapse, the workers were approximately 400 feet underground. They had to navigate over 12 feet of loose soil to access the tunnel boring machine and then make their way back to the entrance. Aerial footage captured crews being lifted from the tunnel in yellow cages operated by cranes.
Rescue efforts were successful, and fortunately, none of the workers suffered serious injuries.
“Everyone is safe,” one official stated, expressing gratitude to the first responders and the community for their efforts. The official mentioned having met some of the workers personally, reassuring them about their families being informed of their safety.
At a press conference, the official emphasized the calmness of the workers during a challenging situation. “They really knew how to secure themselves and handle things,” was a sentiment echoed by LA City Councilman Tim Makosker. He commended their composure under pressure.
The tunnel, built primarily beneath public roads, is 18 feet wide and spans seven miles, designed to transport treated wastewater from Los Angeles County to the Pacific Ocean. This substantial $700 million project is managed by the Los Angeles County Sanitary District.
As for the cause of the collapse, investigations are ongoing. Officials have indicated that work won’t resume until the contractor evaluates the site and ensures it is safe.
