SLBC tunnel conveyor belt extended by 100 metres, debris removal gains momentum

The extension work was executed on a war footing, deemed crucial for accessing the debris-covered section. After a successful trial run, the conveyor belt was made operational in the early hours of Friday.

Hyderabad: Efforts to clear debris from the collapsed roof of the Srisailam Left Bank Canal (SLBC) tunnel have gained momentum as the extension of the conveyor belt was completed on Thursday night.

The extension work was carried out on war footing as it was considered critical for reaching out to the debris-laden stretch. Following a successful trial run, the conveyor belt became operational in the early hours of Friday.

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The conveyor belt previously damaged and in poor condition, was retired in a phased manner. It is now playing an important role in removing accumulated sludge and debris. Heavier materials, including the wreckage of tunneling equipment, are being moved simultaneously to an open yard outside the tunnel using the locomotive.

Officials associated with the operation made it clear that completing the task by the April 15 deadline, as announced by the Revenue Minister Ponguleti Srinivas Reddy, will be an uphill task. Rescue teams estimate it could take up to ten more days only to clear the debris in areas pinpointed by cadaver dogs. The accident occurred over six weeks ago, and rescuers are still working to locate human remains within the rubble.

Officials noted that any bodies retrieved might be in a severely decomposed state, making identification difficult. Clothing worn at the time of the accident may be helpful in the process of identification of the bodies. The two bodies recovered so far were found in relatively better condition, as they were buried in sediment and remained unexposed till they were unearthed.

The extent of debris is under assessment to ensure operations in the last leg of the mission are planned accordingly. Shiv Shanker Loteti, special officer leading the rescue mission, continues to oversee daily reviews, while Arvind Kumar, Special Chief Secretary of Disaster Management, was conducting regular site inspections to monitor progress.