Rescue Operations Intensify for Workers Trapped in Telangana’s SLBC Tunnel Collapse
Rescue efforts have intensified in Telangana’s Nagarkurnool district as authorities continue their mission to save eight workers trapped inside the Srisailam Left Bank Canal (SLBC) tunnel following a collapse on February 22.
Multiple agencies, including the Indian Army, Navy MARCOS commandos, National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), Geological Survey of India (GSI), and specialized rat miners, are working tirelessly to reach the trapped individuals.
SLBC tunnel rescue operation expands
The situation remains critical, with continuous silt and water inflow making it one of the most challenging tunnel rescue missions. Officials have acknowledged the complexity due to the tunnel’s single entry and exit point. “Experts have described it as one of the most difficult tunnel rescue operations globally,” said the State Irrigation Minister.
Despite deploying advanced technology, including robotic cameras and drones, technical challenges and hazardous conditions inside the tunnel are slowing progress. Authorities have managed to reach the tunnel boring machine (TBM), but a 40-meter stretch filled with debris remains an obstacle.
Trapped workers remain unreachable
The eight workers, hailing from Uttar Pradesh, Jammu and Kashmir, Punjab, and Jharkhand, have been out of contact since the collapse. Rescue teams are working around the clock to remove slush and stabilize the tunnel. High-powered pumps are being used to extract water, but seepage rates of 3,600 to 5,000 liters per hour are hindering efforts.
“The situation remains extremely challenging,” said a senior official, emphasizing that experts from the National Geophysical Research Institute (NGRI) and GSI are exploring alternative rescue methods, including drilling from the top or sides of the tunnel.
Government committed to rescue efforts
The state government has assured that all available resources and expertise are being utilized to ensure the safe rescue of the trapped workers. However, rising water levels and unstable conditions continue to pose significant risks.
Families of the trapped workers anxiously await updates as authorities work against time in this high-stakes rescue mission.
