Sat Feb 22 12:32:00 UTC 2025: ## Eight Workers Trapped After Tunnel Collapse in Telangana

**NAGARKURNOOL, TELANGANA –** A major rescue operation is underway in Telangana after a section of a tunnel under construction for the Srisailam Left Bank Canal (SLBC) collapsed on Saturday, trapping at least eight workers. The incident occurred approximately 14 kilometers into the tunnel, located near Domalapenta behind the Srisailam dam.

According to officials, the collapse, spanning over 10 meters with mud spreading 200 meters, happened while workers were repairing a water leak inside the tunnel. While dozens escaped, eight remain trapped. The victims are reportedly 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 significant water inflow into the tunnel. Communication with those trapped has been lost, and the air chamber and conveyor belt have also collapsed, hindering rescue efforts.

The tunnel, intended to be the world’s longest of its kind at 44 kilometers, had only reopened four days prior to the incident. Two tunnel-boring machines were working from opposite ends, with approximately 20 kilometers and 14 kilometers completed respectively.

Chief Minister Revanth Reddy expressed shock and ordered immediate deployment of rescue teams, including the District Collector, SP, Fire Department, and Irrigation Department officials. Union Coal Minister G Kishan Reddy also inquired about the incident and urged swift action for the trapped workers and medical attention for the injured. Officials have deployed a helicopter to the site. The cause of the collapse is currently under investigation.

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