SLBC tunnel rescue efforts are in full swing, with Minister Uttam Kumar Reddy overseeing operations. Multiple agencies, including NDRF and SDRF, are working to save eight trapped workers.
HYDERABAD: The rescue efforts at the Srisailam Left Bank Canal (SLBC) tunnel collapse site in Nagarkurnool district are underway at full speed, with Irrigation & Civil Supplies Minister Capt N Uttam Kumar Reddy closely monitoring the situation. The government, in coordination with the Army, Navy, National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), and other agencies, is making every effort to rescue the eight workers trapped inside the tunnel.
Dewatering operations have begun, and oxygen is being continuously supplied to ensure the survival of the trapped individuals. Speaking at the site, Uttam Kumar Reddy stated, “We have reviewed the relief operations with representatives from the Army, Navy, and NDRF. The government is putting in all possible efforts to save the eight lives inside the tunnel. Chief Minister A Revanth Reddy is personally monitoring the situation, and the entire administration is on high alert.”
The minister informed that both Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi have spoken to the Chief Minister regarding the incident. Rahul Gandhi personally called the Chief Minister today for an update, while Prime Minister Modi had also spoken to him earlier, assuring full support and necessary assistance for the rescue mission.
Challenging Rescue Conditions
Uttam Kumar Reddy highlighted the critical nature of the situation, noting that water inflow is obstructing the operations. Efforts are being made to prevent further waterlogging, while alternative methods are being explored to clear the mud and debris inside the tunnel.
“The natural rock formations in the tunnel became loose, which caused sudden water and mud inflow, filling about 12-13 feet of the tunnel. This is a highly challenging situation, and technical experts are working round the clock to resolve the crisis,” he explained.
Due to the terrain, deploying heavy machinery inside the tunnel is proving difficult. However, authorities are working on alternative strategies to remove the debris efficiently. The Irrigation Department, disaster response teams, and defense personnel are coordinating efforts, with oxygen supply and dewatering operations continuing non-stop.
Since the incident occurred, the government has been actively engaged in rescue efforts. Minister Uttam Kumar Reddy rushed to the accident site on Saturday, holding consultations with disaster relief teams, Army officials, and engineering experts. The NDRF and SDRF teams were deployed immediately to accelerate the rescue process.
On Saturday night, the minister met with Chief Minister Revanth Reddy to review the rescue strategy. He also conducted a teleconference with Chief Secretary Santhi Kumari, Irrigation Department Principal Secretary Rahul Bojja, and officials from the NDRF and SDRF to assess progress and issue further instructions.
On Sunday morning, Uttam Kumar Reddy returned to the site for a high-level review meeting with engineering officials and the contracting agency responsible for the tunnel project. Minister Jupally Krishna Rao was also present at the accident site, supervising specific rescue operations.
Minister Criticises BRS for Politicising the Incident
Uttam Kumar Reddy strongly criticised the BRS leadership for allegedly attempting to politicise the SLBC tunnel collapse instead of supporting the rescue efforts. He accused the previous BRS government of neglecting the SLBC project for over a decade, which, he suggested, may have contributed to the accident.
“The previous BRS government ignored this project for ten years, and now they are trying to shift the blame. It is laughable that those who prioritised commissions over project execution are now pointing fingers. Tunnel construction always carries the risk of leakages, and similar incidents occurred under BRS rule as well. Instead of offering solutions, they are engaging in baseless political criticism,” he stated.
The minister reiterated that the government’s top priority is the ongoing rescue operation and urged BRS leaders to refrain from politicising the crisis.
“We are focused on saving lives. At this crucial hour, I urge everyone to support the ongoing efforts instead of making irresponsible statements,” he added.
