Nagarkurnool (Telangana): Rescue operations at the Srisailam Left Bank Canal (SLBC) tunnel in Telangana faced a major setback on Sunday as teams from the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) and the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) encountered severe difficulties in reaching the collapsed section.

"There's no chance to go to the spot inside the tunnel. It has completely collapsed and mud is reaching up to the knees. We will have to take another step," an SDRF official stated.

SDRF, NDRF, and officials from Singareni Collieries inspected the affected portion, where at least eight workers are feared trapped.

Tunnel collapse occurred four days after work resumed
The collapse took place on Saturday morning when a three-metre section of the roof of the under-construction SLBC tunnel caved in at the 14th km mark near Domalapenta in Nagarkurnool district. The incident happened just four days after construction had resumed following a long hiatus.

While some workers managed to escape, eight labourers remain trapped inside.

Army on standby as rescue efforts intensify
In response, teams from NDRF and SDRF were deployed, while the Engineer Regiment of the Indian Army’s Infantry Division at Secunderabad was placed on standby with an Excavator Dozer.

The Army’s Engineer Task Force (ETF) is equipped with specialist engineering teams, a medical detachment from the Field Ambulance of the Army Medical Corps, an ambulance, three high-capacity pumping sets, armoured hoses, and other necessary equipment to assist in the operation.

Congress MP from Nagarkurnool, Mallu Ravi, said, "A very bad incident happened in the SLBC tunnel. The roof collapsed here. Around 60 people were working. Except 8, all others have come out safely without any serious injuries."

He added, "145 people have come from NDRF, Hyderabad, 120 people have come from SDRF, they are trying their best to save them... Oxygen is going inside the tunnel. There is water inside, a 100 HP pump is coming to remove water and a big 250 KV generator is also coming... Every effort is being made to save their lives."

PM Modi assures central assistance
Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke to Telangana Chief Minister A Revanth Reddy regarding the rescue efforts and assured full assistance from the central government.

The situation is being closely monitored by HQ Telangana & Andhra Sub Area (TASA) and the Infantry Division HQ to ensure coordination between the Army, civil authorities, and rescue teams.

The Indian Army reaffirmed its commitment to disaster response, deploying specialised manpower and equipment to support life-saving operations. The rescue mission remains ongoing, with teams working to evacuate all trapped workers safely.