Hope fades for trapped workers: Telangana tunnel rescue operation faces critical challenges

HYDERABAD: The rescue operation to evacuate the workers trapped in the collapsed tunnel in Telangana has once again faced a crisis. Even after three days since the accident, the rescue team has not been able to enter the tunnel due to the presence of mud and water inside, and the chances of survival are diminishing, Telangana Minister Krishna Rao said. He also confirmed that four of the trapped individuals are construction workers, while the other four are company employees.

The accident occurred on Saturday morning around 10 AM. A section of the tunnel, which was being constructed as part of the Srisailam Left Bank Canal irrigation project in Nagarkurnool, collapsed. The army, National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), and state agencies have arrived for the rescue operation. Naval commandos are also participating in the efforts. Additionally, a six-member team that was involved in the rescue operation of workers trapped in the Silkyara tunnel collapse in Uttarakhand in 2023 has joined the Telangana rescue mission.

"The accident took place 13 kilometres inside the tunnel. The rescuers managed to reach within the last 100 meters, but due to the mud and water, they are unable to proceed further. It is impossible to walk through the tunnel. The operation is currently being carried out using rubber tubes and wooden planks. The chances of survival are low, but we are waiting with hope. No effort will be wasted," Minister Krishna Rao said.

The rescue team has indicated that additional equipment is needed for the operation. The discovery of more cracks in the tunnel walls has further complicated the situation, according to the team. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has assured all possible assistance for the rescue efforts. Opposition leader Rahul Gandhi contacted Telangana Chief Minister Revanth Reddy yesterday to inquire about the situation.