Tragic Telangana SLBC Tunnel Collapse: Heroic Rescue Teams Retrieve First Body, Intensify Efforts to Save Lives
Rescue efforts at the Srisailam Left Bank Canal (SLBC) Tunnel in Nagarkunool, Telangana, reached a poignant milestone with the recovery of one body from the rubble, officials confirmed on Sunday, March 9, 2025. This development comes just over two weeks after the partial collapse of the under-construction tunnel on February 22, which initially trapped eight workers deep inside the passage.
The incident occurred when a three-meter section of the tunnel’s roof gave way at the 14-kilometer mark near Domalapenta, shortly after the resumption of construction work following a prolonged hiatus. Although some workers managed to escape the disastrous event, eight individuals remained unaccounted for, setting off an intensive rescue mission. Rescue personnel, numbering 525 strong and drawn from eleven national-level teams, have been tirelessly working to reach the trapped workers in this challenging operation.
On the evening of March 8, one body was located amid the debris, trapped in a machine within the collapsed section. According to a rescue official, the body was initially visible only by the hand, necessitating careful cutting of the surrounding equipment to retrieve it fully. Efforts continue to ensure safe recovery, while the challenging environment complicates progress.
The involvement of the Kerala cadaver dog squad has proven critical; the dogs picked up a strong scent indicating the possible presence of three more individuals. Simultaneous dewatering and desilting activities are underway to clear obstructions and facilitate better access for rescue teams.
In a bid to enhance operations, Telangana has enlisted advanced robotic technology to assist in the delicate task of both locating and safely accessing the remaining trapped workers. The deployment of these cutting-edge resources underscores the government’s commitment to resolving the crisis. Telangana’s Minister for Irrigation and Civil Supplies, Uttam Kumar Reddy, visited the site to evaluate ongoing efforts in conjunction with top officials, including State Disaster Management Secretary Arvind Kumar and Army Commandant Parikshit Mehra.
Labeling the tunnel collapse a national disaster, Minister Reddy reaffirmed the state government’s dedication to utilizing the latest global technologies in what he described as the “final stretch” of the mission. He also emphasized the government’s resolve to support the affected families fully during this distressing time. Regular updates are planned, with the next review scheduled for March 11.
While all involved face significant hurdles, the dedication of teams and the integration of global experts provide hope for resolution. Consultation with tunnel construction and rescue specialists worldwide is ongoing to ensure the safest approach is implemented amid the complex challenges posed by this subterranean emergency.
This incident has resonated widely, drawing attention to the significance of safety and preparedness in large-scale construction projects, especially those involving intricate and hazardous environments such as tunnel construction. The tragedy and the ensuing emergency response continue to unfold, capturing the attention of many around the world who are closely watching the efforts in Nagarkunool unfold.
Original Source: https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/telangana/telangana-slbc-tunnel-collapse-rescue-teams-recover-body-under-the-derbis/article69309589.ece
Category : Telangana
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Publish Date: 2025-03-09 17:22:00
