Mon Feb 24 14:45:50 UTC 2025: ## Telangana Tunnel Collapse: Rescue Efforts Hampered by Rising Slush, Concerns Over Stability

**Hyderabad, India** – Hope is dwindling for eight workers trapped in a collapsed tunnel in Telangana, India, after a significant setback in rescue operations. Forty-eight hours after the Saturday collapse, a one-meter increase in a wall of slush separating rescuers from the buried workers has raised serious concerns. This, coupled with expert warnings about the unstable nature of the collapsed section, may force a slowdown, or even halt, in rescue efforts.

Less than 50 meters separate rescuers from the trapped workers, but concerns over further collapse and endangering rescuers themselves have prompted caution. An Australian tunnel expert, Chris Cooper, described the area as “unsettled” and too dangerous for heavy digging. Multiple teams, including those from the National Disaster Response Force, the Army, Larsen & Toubro (with advanced equipment), and geologists, have been involved in the operation, but progress has been hampered. The teams have reported hearing noises suggesting shifting boulders and an unstable roof.

The situation is further complicated by a massive influx of water – estimated at 3,200 liters per minute – mixing with sand, rock, and debris to create more slush. While dewatering efforts are underway, the ongoing increase in slush volume is a major concern. The National Highways and Infrastructure Development Corporation Limited (NHIDCL) attributes this either to another sudden inflow or a gradual increase, making the situation highly dangerous.

Telangana Minister Jupally Krishna Rao acknowledged the “very remote” chances of survival for the trapped workers, who hail from various Indian states. The government has sought geological surveys to assess the risk of further collapse and is consulting experts on how to proceed safely. Specialized teams, including “rat-miners” known for their expertise in challenging rescue situations, are on standby.

The 44km-long tunnel, a project initiated in 1983, collapsed while workers were repairing a water leak. While most workers escaped, there has been no contact with the eight trapped individuals since the incident. The government is utilizing advanced equipment, including endoscopic and robotic cameras, to search for the trapped workers and potentially establish communication.

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