SLBC tunnel rescue operations: Ventilation prioritised

Sensors installed to continuously monitor air quality; adequate airflow procedures being implemented to support rescue efforts

Hyderabad: As rescue teams deployed at the SLBC tunnel are inching forward to the point of roof collapse, ventilation issues being faced by them have been prioritised. All precautions were being taken to ensure the safety of all personnel at work.

Sensors have been installed to continuously monitor air quality, as the work place is close to the kilometre point, deep inside the tunnel. Adequate airflow procedures are being implemented to support the ongoing rescue efforts.

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Special Officer Shivashankar Loteti, spearheading the operations, has emphasised the continuation of ventilation efforts, rapid excavation works, and de-watering processes during an inspection at SLBC tunnel inlet on Saturday.

Accompanied by senior officials from various rescue teams, Loteti supervised the ongoing operations inside the tunnel.

Key tasks such as removing steel barriers, water discharge through pumps, and transportation of debris outside the tunnel are being carried out using the conveyor belt. Officials from the Geological Survey of India (GSI) and the Irrigation Department are closely monitoring conditions at the accident site, providing continuous guidance and suggestions to the rescue teams.