Workers trapped in an Indian tunnel could be stuck for "up to a month," an expert revealed.

Officials are gearing up for manual digging, the last phase of the rescue, but haven't given a specific timeframe due to concerns it could take weeks. There's optimism they might return home by Christmas, offering hope to their families.

In Uttarakhand, India, a landslide on November 12 led to the collapse of a road tunnel, trapping workers in the mountainous region.

During tunnel construction, a 200-meter section of the 4.5-kilometer tunnel collapsed, trapping workers inside. Rescuers have crafted a passage extending up to 46 meters, aiming to pull the trapped men out using wheeled stretchers.

Over two weeks, various methods have been attempted to free the 41 workers, including plans to create an escape route with steel pipes, but progress was hindered by falling debris and technical challenges.

Rescuers deployed diverse machinery to excavate the collapsed area, employing vertical and horizontal digging methods to reach the trapped workers. According to officials, an updated drilling machine managed to excavate approximately 20 meters.

Arnold Dix, an international tunneling expert aiding the rescue, told reporters that he couldn't provide a precise timeline for the operation. He indicated that it might take a considerable amount of time, potentially up to a month, but refrained from specifying an exact timeframe.

"Rushing the process is not advisable. The priority is the safe return of these men, and I am confident they will be home for Christmas," he said.

Devendra Patwal, a disaster management official at the site, expressed readiness for potential challenges but hoped the mountain wouldn't pose significant obstacles. He mentioned uncertainty about the drilling machine encountering loose soil or rocks but assured preparedness. Trapped workers received hot meals like rice and lentils through a six-inch pipe after days of consuming roasted chickpeas and nuts. Many of the workers stuck are migrant laborers from various parts of India. Families of those trapped have arrived at the site, staying nearby, anxiously awaiting reunification with their relatives.