Sun Mar 02 01:30:00 UTC 2025: ## Telangana Tunnel Rescue Efforts Hampered by Difficult Conditions
**Mahabubnagar, March 1:** Rescue efforts at the SLBC tunnel in Mahabubnagar are facing significant challenges due to the accumulation of mud, up to 15 feet deep. Teams are risking their lives working in oxygen-deficient conditions, only to find the mud replenishing itself repeatedly. Water seeping from the lower sections of the tunnel further complicates the operation, causing setbacks for rescue teams.
Despite eight days of continuous effort, the recovery of eight bodies trapped inside the tunnel remains stalled. Authorities have determined that the complete removal of the Tunnel Boring Machine (TBM) is necessary before the bodies can be retrieved. South Central Railway welding experts have been deployed to dismantle the TBM. The plan involves cutting the TBM, removing debris, and simultaneously pumping out the accumulated mud.
The government announced a target of recovering the bodies by Sunday evening. Eight ambulances have been stationed near the site, and post-mortem arrangements are being made in Nagarkurnool. Families of the victims are anxiously awaiting the retrieval of their loved ones.
Labor officials are investigating allegations of wage exploitation reported in the media. A National Geographic Research Agency’s Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR) scan has identified the locations of the trapped workers, but challenging conditions are slowing progress. While initial reports suggested imminent recovery, adverse conditions have slowed the operation.
The rescue operation is expected to conclude only after the complete removal of the TBM, after which heavy machinery will be used to remove the remaining mud and debris. A Hitachi machine has been brought from Hyderabad to aid in this process. The ongoing influx of water remains a major obstacle. The eight victims are believed to be trapped at different levels within the tunnel.
First Piper 