Telangana Tunnel Collapse: Cadaver Dogs Deployed as Rescue Enters 16th Day

Rescue Operation Intensifies with Specially Trained Dogs and Robots to Locate Trapped Workers in SLBC Tunnel​

Nagarkurnool, Telangana (March 9) – In a determined effort to locate eight workers trapped inside the partially collapsed Srisailam Left Bank Canal (SLBC) tunnel, rescue teams will deploy specially trained cadaver dogs again on Sunday. The rescue operation, now entering its 16th consecutive day, faces significant challenges due to hazardous conditions within the tunnel.

The cadaver dogs, specifically trained Human Remains Detection Dogs (HRDDs) from the Kerala Police, initially joined the rescue mission on March 7. These Belgian Malinois breed dogs are highly skilled in detecting human remains up to a depth of 15 feet beneath debris and soil. They successfully identified two critical points within the tunnel, where rescue personnel plan to dig beyond five feet, suspecting that workers might be trapped in the second layer of the dismantled Tunnel Boring Machine (TBM).

Robots to Assist Rescue Operations from March 11​

Amid growing concerns for the safety of rescue teams navigating challenging conditions—including significant water seepage, slush, and submerged debris—the Telangana government has decided to introduce robotic equipment starting March 11. These robots are expected to mitigate risks and enhance the safety of personnel working tirelessly inside the tunnel.

Geological Survey Warns of Extreme Caution in Final Stretch​

Adding to the complexities, the Geological Survey of India (GSI) has released a preliminary report urging extreme caution and meticulous planning, particularly in the final 70 meters of the tunnel at the accident site. The GSI emphasized that submerged fragments of the massive Tunnel Boring Machine, buried under water, soil, and stones, pose substantial hazards to rescue teams.

Multi-agency Effort Continues Despite Difficult Conditions​

The eight individuals, comprising engineers and labourers, have been trapped since February 22. Multiple agencies, including the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), Indian Army, Navy, and other expert teams, continue relentless rescue operations despite adverse conditions involving waterlogging, muck, and unstable debris.

Authorities remain hopeful as they expand their rescue strategies, with cadaver dogs leading the charge in pinpointing precise locations, supported by state-of-the-art robotics to safely expedite the complex operation.