HYDERABAD: In a significant development in the ongoing rescue operations at the Srisailam Left Bank Canal (SLBC) tunnel, teams have identified a body of one of the missing workers on Sunday. The discovery was made near the Tunnel Boring Machine (TBM), where the worker’s right arm and left leg were found trapped within the concrete structure.
The body is believed to be that of engineer Gurpreet Singh, identified through a bracelet found on the wrist. Rescue teams are currently working meticulously to extricate the body, employing cutters and drilling equipment to navigate the challenging conditions within the tunnel.
The SLBC tunnel collapse occurred 16 days ago, trapping multiple workers inside. Since then, continuous rescue efforts have been underway, involving Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR) technology and cadaver dogs from Kerala to locate the missing individuals.
On Saturday night, human remains were detected approximately six feet beneath the debris, prompting targeted excavation efforts. An ambulance has been stationed at the tunnel entrance to transport the body once it is fully recovered. Authorities have emphasized the necessity of conducting a DNA test to confirm the identity of the deceased before releasing the remains to the family.
Family members of the trapped workers have been maintaining a vigil near Achampet, anxiously awaiting updates on the rescue operations. This incident has highlighted the inherent risks associated with such complex construction projects, underscoring the need for stringent safety protocols to protect workers’ lives.
