Rescue teams are in a race against time to save eight workers who have been trapped for over 48 hours inside a collapsed tunnel near the Srisailam dam in Telangana’s Nagarkurnool district. Authorities have raised concerns that their survival chances are “very, very remote” as water and debris continue to obstruct rescue efforts.
Rescue Operations Intensify
The 44-km-long tunnel, which collapsed on Saturday morning, was under maintenance when a leak was being repaired. While most workers managed to escape, eight remain unaccounted for. Among them, four are laborers and the other four are employees of the construction company overseeing the tunnel work.
The rescue mission has seen the involvement of the Army, National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), and state agencies. Additionally, Navy commandos have been deployed to assist in the challenging operation. Notably, six members of the team that executed the successful 2023 Silkyara tunnel rescue in Uttarakhand have also joined the mission.
Challenges Hindering Rescue Efforts
The collapse occurred approximately 13 km from the tunnel’s entrance, with rescue teams now reaching the final 100 meters. However, the operation has been severely hampered by a buildup of muck and water, making it difficult for rescuers to proceed. Officials have reported that shifting boulders indicate the tunnel roof remains unstable, posing additional risks to the operation.
“We are using rubber tubes and wooden planks to navigate through the debris. The chances of survival are very, very remote, but we remain hopeful and are not sparing any effort,” Telangana minister Krishna Rao, who is overseeing the rescue, stated.
Rescue teams have requested additional equipment, including de-watering mechanisms, as water continues to gush into the tunnel through cracks in the walls.
Government Response and Monitoring
The situation is being closely monitored at both state and central levels. Telangana Chief Minister Revanth Reddy has been in continuous contact with officials and has instructed teams to expedite efforts, including draining the water and ensuring oxygen supply inside the tunnel.
Congress leader Rahul Gandhi called CM Revanth Reddy to inquire about the rescue efforts, while Prime Minister Narendra Modi has assured full support from the central government.
As rescue teams battle against time and dangerous conditions, hopes for the trapped workers’ survival remain slim. Authorities continue to explore all possible avenues to reach them, but the outcome remains uncertain.
Sources By Agencies
