The rescue operation at the Srisailam Left Bank Canal (SLBC) tunnel in Telangana’s Nagarkurnool district took a critical turn as human remains were reportedly discovered inside the collapsed tunnel. Tourism Minister Jupally Krishna Rao confirmed on Saturday that rescue teams identified what they believe to be human remains within the tunnel.
Rescue teams have used ground-penetrating radar to mark five key locations where silt removal is being carried out. A strong odor emanating from these locations has raised suspicions of human remains being buried under the debris. The thickness of the silt varies from 1.5 to 3 meters, and manual excavation is being carried out round the clock to clear the area.
One of the biggest challenges faced by the rescue teams is the continuous inflow of water and accumulation of silt. Personnel from Singareni Collieries Company Limited (SCCL), the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), and specialized “rat miners” are working tirelessly to navigate these obstacles. To speed up the process, three 5 HP motors are being used to pump out water while locomotives transport the removed silt out of the tunnel.
On Saturday afternoon, Minister Krishna Rao, Irrigation Minister N. Uttam Kumar Reddy, Chief Secretary A. Shanti Kumari, and Special Chief Secretary (Disaster Management) Arvind Kumar reviewed the progress of the rescue operation at the site. Arvind Kumar stated that they expect clearer findings from three to four crucial locations by Sunday.
Meanwhile, the chances of survival for the trapped workers remain bleak, given the extremely challenging conditions inside the tunnel. Despite relentless efforts by the rescue teams, the increasing water levels and heavy silt deposits continue to complicate operations.
The families of the trapped workers remain in distress as they await further updates. With all eyes on the ongoing rescue mission, authorities are under pressure to bring closure to the tragedy as soon as possible.
