Telangana Tunnel Collapse: Rescue Efforts Intensify as Hopes for Survivors Fade
The rescue operation inside the Srisailam Left Bank Canal (SLBC) tunnel in Telangana has reached a crucial stage, with eight workers trapped for the past six days. The collapse occurred when a tunnel segment in the shear zone gave way, causing a sudden gush of water and mud. While some workers managed to escape, those near the tunnel boring machine (TBM) were cut off. The impact was so severe that the machine was found mangled nearly 12 km deep inside the tunnel.
Challenging Rescue Efforts
Rescue teams are cautiously removing debris and dewatering the site, but no trace of the trapped workers has been found. Officials have stated that chances of survival are slim, making this one of the toughest rescue operations in India.
Expert Teams at Work
The rescue mission involves multiple agencies, including the Indian Army, Navy, NDRF, SDRF, GSI, NGRI, and BRO, along with L&T and rat miners, who played a key role in the Uttarakhand tunnel rescue.
Safety Measures and Strategic Approach
Officials emphasize caution due to unpredictable conditions inside the tunnel. To prevent further collapses, a three-pronged approach is being followed:
- Continuous dewatering to remove excess water.
- Manual clearance of silt, as heavy machinery could trigger further instability.
- Plasma cutters to remove the mangled tunnel boring machine, aiding access.
Experts from the National Remote Sensing Agency (NRSA) are also assessing fault lines and water pockets to ensure the safety of rescue teams. With time running out, authorities remain hopeful but acknowledge the grim reality of the situation.
