SLBC Tunnel Rescue: Teams just half a kilometre away from trapped workers

Rescue teams are now just half a kilometre away from the trapped workers inside the SLBC tunnel. Efforts intensify as MARCOS and other teams work tirelessly to reach them.

HYDERABAD: The rescue teams are now just half a kilometre away from the exact location where eight workers remain trapped inside the SLBC (Srisailam Left Bank Canal) tunnel. Authorities are working tirelessly to reach them, and the latest visuals from inside the tunnel have surfaced.

Major Rescue Operation Underway

The rescue operation at the SLBC tunnel has intensified. The MARCOS (Marine Commandos) tunnel team has also joined the efforts. The Indian Marine Commando Force, known for conducting high-risk rescue missions, is involved in the operation, raising hopes for a breakthrough soon.

Officials are exploring multiple access routes to reach the accident site, including alternative passageways and overhead approaches. The tunnel collapse occurred on Saturday, February 22, trapping two engineers, two operators, and four labourers inside.

Authorities stated that after the collapse, the tunnel boring machine, weighing several hundred tons, was displaced by nearly 200 meters due to a sudden water surge. This has complicated rescue efforts but has not deterred the teams from continuing their mission.

Shift-Based Rescue and Heavy Machinery Deployment

Each rescue shift works for five hours inside the tunnel. One team enters at 2 AM and exits by 8 AM, while another shift takes over from 12 PM until evening. A Hitachi excavator has been brought in, and 30 additional workers have been deployed to assist in clearing the debris.

Rescue team members are being provided with food and drinking water on-site. The accident site is four kilometres inside a forested area, making access difficult. Due to the lack of mobile network coverage, a private telecom company has installed a temporary tower. Additionally, walkie-talkies are being used inside the tunnel, where mobile signals are weak.

Authorities are racing against time to reach the trapped workers and ensure their safe evacuation.