Sat Feb 22 15:38:08 UTC 2025: ## Eight Trapped After Tunnel Collapse in Telangana

**NAGARKURNOOL, TELANGANA –** A major rescue operation is underway in Telangana after a portion of a tunnel under construction collapsed, trapping at least eight workers. The incident occurred Saturday at the 14th kilometer point of the Srisailam Left Bank Canal (SLBC) tunnel near Domalapenta, behind the Srisailam dam.

The collapse, which involved a three-meter section of the tunnel roof, occurred while workers were repairing a leak. While dozens escaped, eight remain trapped beneath approximately 10 meters of collapsed earth and mud spread over 200 meters. The trapped workers hail from various states including Jharkhand, Uttar Pradesh, Jammu and Kashmir, and Punjab.

Telangana Irrigation Minister Uttam Kumar Reddy explained that a geological disturbance followed a slow increase in water inflow, leading to the collapse. Communication with those trapped has been lost, and the air chamber and conveyor belt have also collapsed, according to Collector B Santosh.

The Indian Army has deployed a task force including specialist engineering teams, medical personnel, and heavy equipment to assist in the rescue efforts. Prime Minister Narendra Modi contacted Telangana Chief Minister Revanth Reddy, offering the Centre’s full support. Chief Minister Reddy has ordered a swift response from local authorities. Union Coal Minister G Kishan Reddy has also expressed concern and demanded a thorough investigation into the cause of the accident.

The SLBC tunnel, intended to be the world’s longest of its kind at 44 kilometers, had only recently resumed construction after a lengthy hiatus. The incident occurred just four days after work restarted. The ongoing rescue operation is focused on safely retrieving the trapped workers. The extent of any injuries to those who escaped remains unclear.

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