Wed Mar 05 05:38:11 UTC 2025: ## Telangana Tunnel Collapse: Rescue Efforts Continue, Eight Still Trapped
**NAGARKURNOOL, Telangana –** Eleven days after a section of the Srisailam Left Bank Canal (SLBC) tunnel collapsed, trapping eight workers 14 kilometers inside, rescue efforts continue, though the search for the missing personnel has yet to yield results. While a crucial conveyor belt became operational on Tuesday, clearing debris remains a significant challenge.
The 13.9-kilometer tunnel’s collapse on February 22nd left rescuers battling a massive amount of mud, slush, and metal debris. The restored conveyor belt, although functional for 10 kilometers, is still undergoing trial runs for the final three-kilometer stretch to reach the tunnel’s end. Metal debris is being removed using a locomotive, while silt is being transported via the conveyor belt.
Despite the logistical challenges, officials report steady progress in debris removal, with increased focus on the area where the eight workers are believed to be trapped. The Indian Army, alongside multiple agencies, is working around the clock, deploying heavy equipment and personnel in day and night shifts. The quality of food provided to the rescue teams has also been inspected by local authorities.
Family members of the trapped workers continue their agonizing wait, as the complex task of clearing the debris and accessing the final section of the tunnel proves exceptionally difficult. The damaged tunnel boring machine (TBM) further complicates the operation. While hope remains, the challenging nature of the rescue operation underscores the protracted timeline ahead.
First Piper 