Ministers monitor ongoing rescue efforts at Srisailam Left Bank Canal tunnel

Rescue operations at the Srisailam Left Bank Canal Tunnel project to save the eight workers and engineers trapped at the roof collapse site, are being closely monitored by the Minister for Irrigation, N Uttam Kumar Reddy, and Minister for Excise, Jupally Krishna Rao

Hyderabad: Rescue operations at the Srisailam Left Bank Canal Tunnel project to save the eight workers and engineers trapped at the roof collapse site, are being closely monitored by the Minister for Irrigation, N Uttam Kumar Reddy, and the Minister for Excise, Jupally Krishna Rao.

Speaking to the media, Uttam Kumar Reddy detailed the use of sophisticated machinery as part of the rescue efforts. The National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) and defense teams are actively involved in the mission.

---

The critical 200-meter stretch of the tunnel remains filled with water and debris, making it inaccessible. The ongoing dewatering process is expected to take time, and it is difficult to estimate how long it will take to complete the process and enable the rescue teams to gain entry. Uttam Kumar Reddy mentioned that all possible options are being explored to save those trapped.

The rescue teams are focusing on dewatering as their primary task. The deployment of more specialised forces capable of navigating through the slush is being sought to reach the survivors. Other options being considered include drilling from the top or sides of the tunnel to allow the rescue teams to enter.