Nagarkurnool, Telangana, Feb 26 – Telangana Irrigation Minister N. Uttam Kumar Reddy has assured that the ongoing rescue operation to extricate eight workers trapped inside the partially collapsed SLBC (Srisailam Left Bank Canal) tunnel will be completed within two days. The decision comes as authorities intensify efforts by venturing into the silt-filled tunnel to locate the missing individuals.
Speaking at a press conference, Reddy stated that a comprehensive action plan has been devised after discussions with key officials, including representatives from the Army, National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), and senior state authorities.
"The entire operation has been reviewed, and we have formulated a clear plan. We will proceed into the silt inside the tunnel with a well-defined timeframe. We are hopeful that the mission will be concluded within the next 48 hours," Reddy said.
Rescue Efforts Intensified
Operations had slowed on Tuesday due to safety concerns for the rescue teams. However, with renewed momentum, multiple strategies are being deployed:- Dewatering of the collapsed tunnel continues.
- The stuck Tunnel Boring Machine (TBM) will be cut into pieces using gas cutters and removed.
- Specialized teams, including the Army, Navy, Rat Miners, and NDRF, will conduct another intensive rescue effort.
Hopes Remain Despite Challenges
When asked about the chances of the trapped workers’ survival, Reddy stated, "We have not completely given up hope. Our efforts remain focused on bringing them out safely."The tragic incident occurred on February 22, when a section of the SLBC tunnel, part of a crucial irrigation project, collapsed, trapping eight workers inside. Authorities remain committed to the rescue mission, ensuring no compromises are made in their efforts.
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