Massive Boulders Delay SLBC Tunnel Rescue in Telangana, Deadline Extended

Officials now expect the rescue operations at the Srisailam Left Bank Canal (SLBC) tunnel to continue over the April 15 deadline due to the ongoing significant delays. The main obstacle has been the enormous boulders that were left inside the tunnel as a result of a landslip. Using heavy machinery, these massive rocks are being gradually reduced to smaller pieces before being removed along with other debris.

Every day, operations are conducted with an emphasis on tunnel conditions, such as water flow and soil stability. Experts from the irrigation department and scientists from the Geological Survey of India are closely following safety procedures as they carry out the last leg of the rescue effort. The rescue effort was delayed by five days, even though it was originally planned to be finished by April 10. The work is anticipated to take even longer to finish, though, given the current pace.

The tunnel's last 50 meters have been especially challenging. Teams had set a daily goal of clearing 20 meters of debris, but because of the size of the obstruction, actual progress has only been around 10 meters.

The heightened rescue efforts are being supervised by SLBC Tunnel Special Officer Sivashankar Lotheti. Senior mission officials attended a review meeting on Sunday at the SLBC Tunnel Inlet 1 office in Domalapenta. Despite the difficulties, officials say the operations are moving forward steadily. To guarantee safety and avoid more issues, extra care is being taken when excavating soil.

The completion of the access path to the accident site is expected to speed up the last stage of operations, according to authorities.