Fri Feb 28 04:09:30 UTC 2025: ## Hope Fades as Rescue Crews Reach Trapped Workers in Telangana Tunnel

**Hyderabad, Telangana –** Rescue efforts to reach eight people trapped in a collapsed tunnel in Telangana’s Nagarkurnool district have reached a critical juncture. After seven days, crews have finally reached the last 50 meters of the Srisailam Left Bank Canal (SLBC) tunnel, but find the passage completely blocked by debris.

The trapped individuals, including engineers and workers, have been entombed for over 130 hours, with little to no access to water or food. While fresh air is being pumped into the tunnel, the conditions – high humidity, pressure, and the extensive debris – significantly diminish their chances of survival, according to Irrigation department engineers.

Infrared cameras have been unable to locate the workers within the debris, forcing rescue teams to focus on painstakingly removing the soil, rocks, and broken parts of the tunnel boring machine. The process is further complicated by a persistent water seepage of approximately 5,000 liters per minute, requiring continuous dewatering efforts.

The rescue operation is utilizing small trolleys and a locomotive to transport the removed debris. However, concerns remain about the structural integrity of the tunnel, making the removal process slow and cautious. Experts are evaluating the risk of further collapse before attempting to remove debris from the initial 15-20 meters.

Telangana’s Irrigation Minister, N. Uttam Kumar Reddy, expressed hope that the rescue operation will conclude within the next two to three days. He also anticipates that the tunnel excavation project can resume within two to three months. The situation remains dire, however, as the chances of survival for the trapped workers continue to dwindle with each passing hour.

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