SILKYARA: In the dim confines of the collapsed Silkyara tunnel, where trapped workers are enduring an agonising wait for evacuation, life has found a peculiar rhythm.

From intense games of ‘chor-police’ to spirited rounds of teen patti and rummy, the tunnel has become a playground of sorts for those yearning to be rescued, reports Shivani Azad.Medical experts at the tunnel site said these were great ways to fend off stress during their prolonged entrapment.To alleviate the strain of the ongoing evacuation ordeal, the authorities have supplied the trapped individuals with not only essential provisions but also a deck of playing cards.Dramatic Triumph: NDRF heroes penetrate Silkyara Tunnel, signalling major breakthrough in Uttarkashi rescueA stash of khaini – edible crushed tobacco, heavily used among people from Bihar, Jharkhand, and UP — has also been sent in to prevent the potential onset of “withdrawal symptoms” among them.Dr Prem Pokhriyal, the lead doctor stationed outside the tunnel said, “When I asked them what they do to kill time inside the tunnel, they replied, “we play chor-police”.

We also provided a pack of cards to them.

In fact, I asked them to repeat behind me ‘Mein shaktiman atmaa hoon’ –and they did it,” he said.

Pokhriyal said, “I believe they all will come out fine, but of course, some psychometric changes would be there in some as they would come out of a place without sunlight after so many days.”