Rescue Efforts Intensify at SLBC Tunnel Mishap Site in Srisailam
Nagarkurnool, February 23: Special rescue teams have been deployed to the SLBC (Srisailam Left Bank Canal) tunnel to rescue eight workers trapped inside following a mishap. Army and defense personnel arrived in three helicopters to assist in the high-risk operation.
Authorities are utilizing modern technology in the rescue efforts, though challenges remain due to the malfunction of the conveyor belt system. Officials are considering manually pushing soil to aid the process. Digging from above is not viable as the accident site is at a depth of 400 meters, while lateral excavation poses the risk of a complete collapse of the mound.
Ministers Uttam Kumar Reddy and Jupally Krishna Rao, accompanied by rescue teams, entered the tunnel to assess the situation firsthand. Hyderabad Commissioner Ranganathan, engineers, and Army personnel are also on-site coordinating the efforts.
It took over an hour for the teams to reach the accident site. Meanwhile, NDRF personnel are transporting essential supplies for relief operations. Officials estimate that it may take around three hours for those returning from the tunnel to come out, after which a clearer picture of the situation is expected.
Ministers are holding review meetings with officials to expedite the rescue and ensure the safe evacuation of the trapped workers. Further updates will follow as the operation progresses.
