A partial tunnel collapse in India has left 40 construction workers trapped under debris. The incident occurred in Uttarakhand, a state where job site conditions are precarious due to the inability of regulatory oversight to keep pace with development. Despite the dangerous conditions, all 40 workers were found to be alive. India’s construction industry has seen significant growth in recent years but at a high cost. The fatality rate in the industry is approximately 38 per day. Experts believe that many workers are recruited with little training and equipment, and with minimal instructions about safety protocols. The overall oversight in the industry is weaker compared to developed countries. The rescue efforts for the trapped workers will depend on various factors. If the main exit is collapsed, a separate shaft may have to be drilled or the debris stabilized for their safe evacuation. Creating an escape shaft would require engineering expertise and specialized equipment. While the survival of the workers is a remarkable development, it remains unclear how they managed to avoid further injury. The incident highlights the need for a stronger regulatory environment and better safety measures in India’s construction industry.