Rescue operations are ongoing in the Srisailam tunnel accident as teams work to remove accumulated mud and debris. The National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) has reached the tunnel boring machine (TBM) site to assist in the efforts.
HYDERABAD: A serious accident took place inside the Srisailam Left Bank Canal (SLBC) tunnel, where eight workers were trapped following a roof collapse. Rescue operations are ongoing as teams work to remove accumulated mud and debris. The National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) has reached the tunnel boring machine (TBM) site to assist in the efforts.
The accident occurred at the 14-kilometre mark of the tunnel, causing significant structural damage. Reports indicate that the collapse led to water and sludge accumulation, blocking nearly 11 kilometres of the tunnel with three feet of debris. Rescue personnel reached the 11-kilometre point using a loco train and continued on foot to the affected site.
During the incident, the rear section of the tunnel boring machine was damaged, and both sides of the TBM became clogged with soil and debris. NDRF teams are working under challenging conditions to reach the trapped workers. However, officials stated that until water, mud, and rubble are cleared, evacuation remains difficult. The agency responsible for the project confirmed that the TBM moved approximately 80 meters backwards due to the impact.
The accident occurred at 8:30 AM on Saturday near Domalapenta in Amrabad mandal, Nagarkurnool district, during ongoing tunnel construction. While 42 workers, including engineers, managed to escape, eight workers from the JP company remained trapped inside. Rescue operations are in full swing to bring them to safety.
The tunnel project, which had resumed after a long pause, was being expedited for completion. On Saturday morning, around 50 workers entered the tunnel for the first shift when the roof suddenly collapsed. Large chunks of concrete and soil fell, creating a loud noise resembling an earthquake.
Authorities estimate that nearly 1,000 cubic meters of rock, mud, and debris have accumulated at the site. Along with the fallen rubble, water entered the tunnel, causing a complete blockage. As a result, many workers panicked and rushed out, leaving behind the machinery. Some sustained injuries and were shifted to the GENCO hospital for treatment, but they are reported to be safe.
Meanwhile, efforts to rescue the eight trapped workers have been challenging due to the presence of debris and water. An external oxygen supply has been arranged to ensure their safety. Electricity supply, which was disrupted during the accident, has been restored to aid in rescue operations. Further updates are awaited as rescue teams continue their efforts.
