Sun Mar 02 01:30:00 UTC 2025: **Eight Workers Presumed Dead After Sri Sailam Left Bank Canal Tunnel Collapse**
MAHABUBNAGAR, March 2, 2024 – Authorities believe that eight workers trapped in the collapsed Sri Sailam Left Bank Canal (SLBC) tunnel are likely dead. Rescue efforts, ongoing for eight days following the February 22nd incident near Domalapenta in Nagarkurnool district, have yielded little hope. While a small chance of survival remains, the challenging conditions within the tunnel drastically reduce the likelihood.
Utilizing Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR) technology and Doppler scanning, experts located the workers approximately three meters deep within the tunnel. Four were found clustered together, while the location of the remaining four suggests they are trapped beneath the Tunnel Boring Machine (TBM). The intense mud and debris, along with the continuous flow of water from the TBM cutter area, pose significant challenges to rescue teams. Experts warn that further actions require extreme caution to prevent additional casualties.
The difficult terrain necessitates the deployment of specialized Navy commandos known for their expertise in such situations. The rescue operation, involving over 18 agencies and 703 personnel including 200 from Singareni Collieries, aims to recover at least three or four bodies by Sunday evening. However, extracting those trapped under the TBM could take another three to five days, depending on the stability of the tunnel.
Eight forensic experts from across Telangana and Andhra Pradesh have been mobilized to conduct autopsies if needed. DNA samples will be collected if the bodies cannot be immediately identified by family members.
Minister Juppally Krishna Rao stated that the chances of survival are virtually nonexistent. He highlighted the ongoing rescue efforts and addressed concerns about government negligence, attributing the accident to unforeseen natural circumstances. He also criticized the BRS party for engaging in what he termed as “political opportunism” related to the tragedy.
The incident is a stark reminder of the risks involved in large-scale infrastructure projects. The rescue operation continues, but hope is dwindling for the trapped workers.
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