31 workers rescued after LA tunnel partially collapses
A massive rescue operation was launched last night in Los Angeles after a section of an underground tunnel partially collapsed, according to officials. A total of 31 workers were brought out safely, CNN reported.
The Los Angeles Fire Department (LAFD) reported that those who were rescued exhibited no visible injuries, according to multiple news outlets. The full rescue effort involved several individuals being lifted to safety using a crane.
The tunnel, which is part of a municipal wastewater project, has only one entry and exit point, sources said. The collapse reportedly occurred 400 ft underground, and around five to six miles from the entry/exit point.
Over 100 responders from the LAFD, including Urban Search and Rescue teams, were deployed to assist in the rescue, as noted by Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass on X.
Further reports indicate the collapse occurred while the workers were operating the tunnel boring machine. Robert Ferrante, chief engineer and general Manager of the Los Angeles County Sanitation Districts, stated at a news conference that the collapse occurred due to “squeezing ground,” a condition where soil becomes deformed during excavation.
Officials noted that the incident serves as an important reminder for such projects to diligently assess risks involved when working underground.
This is a developing story, and officials from sanitation districts are investigating what caused the collapse.
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