It has been five days, specifically on Wednesday, since eight individuals became trapped in the partially collapsed tunnel of the Srisailam Left Bank Canal (SLBC) project in Telangana. The rapid influx of silt and water into the tunnel poses significant dangers, not only to the trapped individuals but also to the rescuers involved in the operation. Irrigation Minister Uttam Kumar Reddy, referencing expert opinions, stated that this situation represents "the most complex and difficult tunnel rescue operation in the world, or at least in India," due to the fact that there is only a single entry and exit point to the SLBC tunnel, which is also recognized as the longest irrigation tunnel globally.
On Tuesday, top specialists from the Army, Navy, NDRF, GSI, and various other agencies worked tirelessly to achieve a breakthrough in the rescue efforts within the collapsed SLBC tunnel, all while facing significant risks to their own safety.
Nagarkurnool District Collector B. Santhosh stated that prior to proceeding with any actions, the stability of the tunnel is being carefully assessed, even as dewatering efforts are underway. "Currently, we are unable to establish communication with the individuals trapped inside. We are consulting with the Geological Survey of India and other experts. At this moment, we are focused on dewatering and making progress. However, we are unable to advance for the last 40 or 50 meters. We continue to seek guidance from the GSI and NGRI, and experts from L&T have also arrived on-site," the collector remarked.
(This story is published from a syndicated feed)