HYDERABAD: Rescue operations at the Srisailam Left Bank Canal (SLBC) tunnel have now entered the 52nd day, with officials restoring the ventilation system to ensure oxygen supply for personnel working deep inside the tunnel.
The operation, ongoing near Achampet, involves continuous excavation to clear debris inside the tunnel. Using five excavators, soil is being removed and transported outside via conveyor belts.
On Monday, Special Officer Shiva Shanker conducted a review meeting with senior officials at the tunnel site. He commended the dedication and round-the-clock efforts of the rescue teams, emphasising that operations are progressing without interruption.
Shanker stated that the process of removing large volumes of accumulated soil using conveyor belts remains active and that dewatering is also underway. The ventilation system, which had been compromised, has now been restored and is being further enhanced to provide a stable oxygen supply to the rescue personnel inside the tunnel.
Authorities confirmed that all necessary safety protocols are being strictly followed. The review meeting was attended by Singareni Mines Rescue General Manager Baidya, SDRF officer Giridhar Reddy, JP Company’s Senior Project Engineer Sanjay Kumar Singh, and irrigation officials.
The SLBC tunnel, part of a crucial irrigation project, has been under intense rescue efforts due to an unresolved obstruction, with teams striving to ensure safety while progressing toward full clearance.
