Thu Mar 13 08:08:10 UTC 2025: ## Rescue Robots Deployed in Indian Tunnel Collapse; Seven Still Missing
**Hyderabad, March 13, 2025** – Rescue efforts intensified today in the Srisailam Left Bank Canal (SLBC) tunnel near Domalapenta, where seven workers remain trapped following a tunnel collapse on February 22nd. Teams have cleared debris up to the final 50 meters of the tunnel, utilizing a new autonomous hydraulic sludge removal robot to navigate difficult-to-reach areas.
South Central Railway technicians are using plasma and gas cutters to dismantle the damaged Tunnel Boring Machine (TBM), allowing for easier debris removal. The cutting process, now in its 20th day, is focused on the upper and middle levels of the TBM, with plans to address the lower levels next. Removed metal parts are being swiftly transported out of the tunnel using locomotive trolleys.
Officials remain hopeful that the continued debris removal will lead to the discovery of the missing workers. The deployment of the advanced robot is expected to significantly improve the efficiency of the rescue operation in the remaining challenging section.
First Piper 