HYDERABAD: Telangana Chief Minister A Revanth Reddy has reiterated his government’s commitment to completing the Srisailam Left Bank Canal (SLBC) tunnel project, despite the recent tunnel collapse that occurred on February 22, 2025, in Nagarkurnool district. The collapse resulted in eight workers being trapped inside the under-construction tunnel.
The accident took place when a three-metre section of the tunnel’s roof caved in near Domalapenta. The trapped workers hail from Uttar Pradesh, Jharkhand, Jammu & Kashmir, and Punjab.
Ongoing Rescue Efforts
Chief Minister Revanth Reddy has been personally overseeing the rescue operations, coordinating efforts with multiple agencies, including the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), Indian Army, and Navy. Despite significant challenges such as water seepage, rescue teams are working tirelessly to pump out water and supply oxygen to the trapped workers.
Commitment to the SLBC Project
In a recent statement, CM Reddy underscored his administration’s determination to complete the SLBC tunnel project, which is designed to provide irrigation to approximately four lakh acres. He also criticized the previous Bharat Rashtra Samithi (BRS) government, alleging that the project was stalled due to a lack of commissions from contractors, which led to structural weaknesses in the tunnel.
Central Government’s Support
CM Reddy further noted that Prime Minister Narendra Modi has assured the Telangana government of full support in the ongoing rescue operations. While rescue efforts remain the top priority, the administration is equally focused on ensuring the successful completion of the SLBC project to enhance irrigation infrastructure in the state.
As operations continue, the Telangana government remains committed to both immediate and long-term objectives, prioritizing worker safety and the successful execution of the SLBC tunnel project.
