The rescue operation at the collapsed Srisailam Left Bank Canal (SLBC) tunnel has entered its third day, with eight workers still trapped inside. Teams from the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), and the Indian Army are battling against time to evacuate the stranded workers.
The tunnel, which collapsed on February 22 near Domalapenta in Telangana’s Nagarkurnool district, remains blocked by debris and filled with water, complicating rescue efforts. Telangana Minister Jupally Krishna Rao is at the site, monitoring the developments closely.
#WATCH | Nagarkurnool, Telangana: Rescue operations carried out inside the Srisailam Left Bank Canal (SLBC) tunnel as a portion of the tunnel near Domalpenta collapsed on 22nd February.
— ANI (@ANI) February 24, 2025
At least eight workers are feared trapped. pic.twitter.com/m56YomPjWr
Key Developments:
Rescue Challenges: The last 200 meters of the collapsed tunnel are completely blocked, making it difficult to locate the trapped workers. The area is also filled with water, delaying operations.
NDRF Progress: Teams have covered around 13.5 km inside the tunnel, utilizing locomotives and conveyor belts. However, thick mud and debris are making entry difficult.
Multiple Rescue Plans: Authorities are exploring three possible ways to rescue the workers—drilling from above, drilling from the side, or desilting the area to clear the debris.
Indian Army Joins Operation: With the situation becoming more critical, the Army has been roped in to assist in the rescue efforts.
Construction Resumed Just Days Ago: Shockingly, the collapse happened just four days after construction work had resumed following a long halt.
With each passing hour, the urgency to rescue the workers intensifies. Officials are working round the clock, hoping for a breakthrough in the coming hours.