Rescue operations have reached a critical stage as efforts continue to save eight workers trapped inside the collapsed Srisailam Left Bank Canal (SLBC) tunnel in Nagarkurnool, Telangana. Despite the relentless work of multiple agencies, including the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), Indian Army, and Navy, the situation remains precarious, with increasing concerns over the survival of those trapped.
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The tunnel collapse occurred on February 22, and since then, teams have been working around the clock to clear debris, remove silt, and navigate through the blocked pathways. However, difficult geological conditions, structural instability, and continuous inflow of water and sludge have slowed the progress.
The Disaster: What Happened?
On February 22, at around 5:30 PM, a section of the SLBC tunnel collapsed, trapping eight workers inside. The tunnel, a crucial part of the Srisailam Left Bank Canal Project, was under construction when a sudden cave-in blocked the passage. The trapped individuals, including two engineers, two machine operators, and four laborers, were working deep inside when the accident occurred.
Possible Causes of Collapse:
- Geological Instability: Experts suggest that tectonic activity, underground water flow, or weak rock formations may have caused the collapse.
- Structural Weakness: The tunnel, still under development, may have had loose soil or inadequate support structures at certain points.
- Heavy Machinery Vibration: Continuous drilling and excavation might have triggered the cave-in.
Challenges in Rescue Operations
Despite the massive effort, the rescue teams face several challenges:
1. Silt and Water Accumulation
One of the biggest obstacles is the continuous inflow of water and silt, making movement difficult inside the tunnel. This thick sludge has blocked paths, preventing rescue workers from reaching the trapped individuals quickly.
2. Structural Instability
The collapsed section is extremely fragile, and any attempt to drill or remove debris risks further cave-ins. The unstable rock formations pose a serious threat to both rescuers and those still trapped.
3. Limited Access Points
With only one entry and exit, the rescue operation has to be meticulously planned to avoid worsening the situation. Alternative routes have been considered, but none have proven to be safe or viable so far.
4. Communication Difficulties
So far, there has been no direct contact with the trapped workers, raising serious concerns about their health and survival. Endoscopic cameras and robotic sensors have been deployed but have struggled due to the slush and debris blocking visibility.
Multi-Agency Rescue Efforts
A massive rescue operation is underway, involving over 600 personnel from different agencies.
1. National and State Disaster Response Forces
- The NDRF and SDRF teams have been leading the operation, using drilling equipment, robotic cameras, and gas cutters to clear debris.
2. Indian Army and Navy Assistance
- Specialized divers and engineering teams from the Indian Navy have been deployed due to the excessive water logging inside the tunnel.
- The Indian Army’s engineers are assisting with stabilizing the tunnel’s structure to prevent further collapse.
3. Expert Help from the Silkyara Tunnel Rescue Team
- A six-member team from the 2023 Silkyara Tunnel Rescue in Uttarakhand has joined the operation, bringing valuable experience in handling high-risk underground rescues.
4. Advanced Equipment in Use
- Gas cutters to clear metal obstructions.
- Endoscopic cameras and robotic drones to locate the workers.
- Dog squads to detect movement and any signs of life.
- Thermocol boats to navigate the submerged areas.
Current Status: Where Do Things Stand?
As of February 26, 2025, rescue workers have reached the collapsed section, but contact with the trapped workers remains uncertain. With each passing hour, oxygen levels inside the tunnel are decreasing, and there is no confirmation on food or water availability for the workers.
Rescuers are working on multiple strategies:
- Clearing silt and water manually, which is time-consuming but safer than drilling.
- Exploring alternative routes to reach the workers without disturbing the unstable structure.
- Using heavy machinery cautiously, as excessive vibration could trigger another collapse.
Statements from Authorities
Telangana Chief Minister Revanth Reddy visited the site and assured that all resources are being utilized. He stated:
“This is a difficult rescue operation, but we are working with the best experts. Our priority is to ensure the safe return of all trapped workers.”
Meanwhile, Telangana Minister Uttam Kumar Reddy highlighted the complexity of the operation, emphasizing that expert geologists are assessing the safest method of rescue.
Emotional Impact on Families and Communities
The incident has left families in deep distress. Relatives of the trapped workers have gathered near the site, praying and waiting anxiously for updates. Some have expressed frustration over delays in the rescue and are urging authorities to speed up the process.
Local communities have come forward with prayers, food, and moral support for the rescue teams. Across Telangana, temples and religious places are witnessing mass prayers for the safe return of the workers.
Looking Ahead: What’s Next?
Rescue teams are now focusing on:
✔️ Drilling alternative escape routes.
✔️ Deploying high-powered water pumps to remove sludge.
✔️ Using reinforced metal sheets to stabilize weak sections of the tunnel.
✔️ Monitoring oxygen levels inside the trapped zone.
Officials have assured that no effort will be spared in bringing the workers back safely.
Moving Ahead: The Struggle Continues
As Telangana battles one of its toughest rescue operations, every minute counts. The heroic efforts of rescue teams, engineers, and experts are pushing the boundaries of what is possible in underground rescues.With hope, expertise, and resilience, authorities are determined to bring all eight trapped workers to safety. The nation watches anxiously, hoping for a successful rescue mission in the coming hours or days.
By – Nikita
