Desperate Race Against Time as Telangana Tunnel Collapse Leaves Eight Workers Trapped

Hyderabad - In the early hours of February 22, 2025, a catastrophic collapse within the Srisailam Left Bank Canal (SLBC) tunnel in Telangana's Nagarkurnool district left eight workers trapped approximately 13.5 kilometers underground. Despite relentless rescue efforts, the situation grows increasingly dire with each passing hour.  

The incident occurred when a section of the tunnel roof gave way, inundating the passage with water and debris. The trapped individuals include two engineers, two operators, and four laborers from Uttar Pradesh, Jharkhand, Punjab, and Jammu & Kashmir. Rescue operations have intensified, with over 600 personnel from multiple agencies, including the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), Indian Army, and Navy, working tirelessly to reach them.  

However, the mission faces formidable challenges. Continuous water seepage, estimated at approximately 3,200 liters per minute, has led to severe slush accumulation, hindering progress and raising concerns about the tunnel's structural integrity. Specialized teams, including "rat-hole" miners known for expertise in confined rescues, have been deployed to navigate the treacherous conditions.  

Despite these efforts, there has been no communication with the trapped workers since the collapse. Telangana Minister Jupally Krishna Rao has expressed grave concerns, stating that chances of survival are "very, very remote." The rescue operation is further complicated by the displacement of the Tunnel Boring Machine (TBM), which was shifted approximately 200 meters due to the collapse and water surge.  

As the rescue teams battle against time and the elements, the nation watches with hope for a miraculous outcome in this unfolding tragedy.