In a heartbreaking incident on February 22, 2025, a section of the Srisailam Left Bank Canal (SLBC) tunnel in Telangana’s Nagarkurnool district collapsed, leaving eight workers trapped inside. The victims, including engineers and laborers from various states such as Uttar Pradesh, Jharkhand, Jammu & Kashmir, and Punjab, were reportedly trapped about 14 kilometers into the tunnel.
Rescue Operations in Full Swing
Rescue teams, including personnel from the Indian Army, National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), and other local authorities, have launched a massive operation to retrieve the workers. However, the operation has faced significant challenges due to the accumulation of debris and water seepage inside the tunnel. Despite these obstacles, rescuers are working round the clock to save the trapped individuals.
Telangana Minister Jupally Krishna Rao has expressed grave concerns over the workers’ survival chances. He stated that, based on the current conditions within the tunnel, the likelihood of any survivors is very low, but he emphasized that the teams would continue their efforts regardless of the odds.
Specialized Help Deployed
To assist in the difficult task of rescuing the trapped workers, a specialized team with experience in similar operations has been brought in. This team had previously rescued workers from another tunnel collapse in Uttarakhand in November 2023. Their expertise is now being utilized to navigate the dangerous conditions inside the Srisailam tunnel.
Government Support and Coordination
Telangana’s Chief Minister has been closely monitoring the situation, ensuring that all necessary resources are available for the rescue operation. He has been in regular communication with officials and experts to assess the progress of the operation and to offer support where needed. The state government has pledged to provide full assistance to the affected families during this distressing time.
Hope Amidst Tragedy
As the rescue efforts continue, people across the region are coming together to offer support to the families of the trapped workers. Despite the grim circumstances, the public remains hopeful that the ongoing operation will result in a positive outcome.
The tragic collapse of the SLBC tunnel has shaken the local community, but the determination of the rescue teams and the support of the government and citizens have shown that everyone is united in the effort to bring the workers home safely.
