Telangana CM Revanth Reddy Reviews Ongoing Rescue Operations at SLBC Tunnel Collapse Site

On March 2, 2025, Telangana Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy visited the Srisailam Left Bank Canal (SLBC) tunnel collapse site in Nagarkurnool district to assess the ongoing rescue operations. The incident, which occurred on February 22, has left eight workers trapped, prompting extensive efforts from multiple rescue agencies. The visit comes as the rescue operation enters its ninth day, with authorities facing several challenges in locating and evacuating the trapped workers.

Telangana Chief Minister’s On-Site Assessment

Accompanied by Irrigation Minister Uttam Kumar Reddy and Excise Minister Jupally Krishna Rao, CM Revanth Reddy conducted a thorough inspection of the accident site. He interacted with officials, engineers, and rescue personnel, emphasizing the state’s commitment to speeding up the operation.

Key takeaways from the CM’s visit:

1. Emphasis on Fast-Tracking Rescue Efforts – The CM instructed officials to use all available resources to expedite the process.
2. Technical Challenges Acknowledged – He admitted that the exact location of the trapped workers is still unclear, but rescue teams are working to pinpoint their whereabouts.
3. Urgency in Restoring Damaged Equipment – He noted that the damaged conveyor belt was slowing down the process and ordered immediate repairs.
4. Emotional Connect with Families – The CM met the families of the trapped workers, assuring them that the government was doing everything possible to rescue their loved ones.

Challenges in Rescue Operations

Despite continuous efforts, multiple challenges have hampered the operation:

1. Uncertain Location of Trapped Workers – Advanced tracking technologies are being considered to determine their exact position.
2. Equipment Malfunctions – A damaged conveyor belt used for removing silt has slowed the rescue. Officials expect repairs to be completed by Monday.
3. Environmental Hazards – Accumulated slush and water inside the tunnel create dangerous conditions for rescuers.
4. Structural Instability – Concerns over further collapse have forced authorities to proceed with extreme caution.

Innovative Solutions and Future Steps

To overcome these challenges, the CM proposed several new strategies:

• Deployment of Robotic Assistance – Experts are exploring robotic technology to navigate the tunnel safely.
• Strengthened Coordination – The CM stressed the need for unified efforts between the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), the Indian Army, and local rescue teams.
• Enhanced Safety Measures – Future infrastructure projects in Telangana will undergo stricter safety inspections to prevent such accidents.

Background on the SLBC Project

The SLBC tunnel project, one of the longest in the world at 44 km, is critical to irrigation and drinking water supply in Telangana. However, the project has faced delays due to funding shortages, technical hurdles, and political conflicts. Upon assuming office, CM Revanth Reddy prioritized the project, clearing pending bills and resuming technical consultations to ensure completion.

Political Repercussions

The tunnel collapse has ignited a political storm:

• Blame Game Between Governments – CM Revanth Reddy criticized the previous BRS government, led by K. Chandrasekhar Rao, for neglecting the SLBC project and failing to implement proper safety measures.
• Opposition’s Counterclaims – The BRS party has accused the current Congress government of being ill-prepared and delaying the rescue.
• Call for Unity – The CM urged all political factions to put aside differences and focus on saving lives.

Current Status and Outlook

As of now, rescue operations continue with:

• Eleven Specialized Teams – Experts from the Indian Army, NDRF, and tunnel specialists are actively involved.
• Timeframe Estimates – Authorities predict it may take another 2-3 days to break through the debris.
• Hope for Survivors – Officials remain hopeful that the trapped workers are still alive and awaiting rescue.

Moving Forward 

The SLBC tunnel collapse is a stark reminder of the importance of infrastructure safety and disaster preparedness. The Telangana government, under CM Revanth Reddy’s leadership, is making every possible effort to rescue the trapped workers and complete the SLBC project, which is crucial for the state’s irrigation needs. This tragic incident also highlights the urgent need for stricter safety measures in large-scale projects to prevent future accidents.

By – Nikita