India tunnel collapse: Cracking noises halt rescue operation for 40 trapped workers

Rescuers trying to reach 40 workers trapped in a collapsed highway tunnel in the Indian Himalayas since last weekend suspended work temporarily on Friday, after hearing a sudden “cracking sound” and the drilling machine developed a snag. The men have been stuck in the hillside tunnel in Uttarakhand state since Sunday morning after it caved in, but authorities said they are safe. The trapped workers have light and receive oxygen, food, water and medicines via a pipe, and can communicate via walkie-talkie.