Dehradun, Aug. 17 -- The Chamoli tunnel tragedy, in which at least seven workers have died, 12 have been injured while three remain missing, cannot be dismissed merely as an unfortunate geological event. It raises serious questions about the safety systems at the Vishnugad-Pipalkoti Hydroelectric Project and the accountability of those responsible for monitoring the construction site and acting on early warning signs.

The most disturbing information emerging from the accident is that debris had reportedly been falling inside the tunnel for two days before the major incident, according to the locals. If this is the case, why did the project authorities fail to take the warning seriously? Were reports of falling debris and water ingress co...