Telangana Government Establishes Technical Committee for Search Operations in SLBC Tunnel's Critical Zone

The Telangana government has established a technical committee to search for six individuals still missing in the partially collapsed Srisailam Left Bank Canal (SLBC) tunnel. This operation focuses on the last 50 meters, where they are likely buried under debris. The committee includes experts from agencies like the NDRF, NGRI, GSI, and NCS, alongside various state departments.

Efforts to clear the tunnel have been ongoing for 55 days, removing over 800 tonnes of metal and a significant amount of muck. However, the final stretch remains highly unstable. The government order issued by Arvind Kumar, Special Chief Secretary Disaster Management, highlights the need for scientific search operations without endangering rescuers.

Expert Committee Formed for Safe Operations

Chief Minister A Revanth Reddy instructed that all efforts be made to locate and retrieve the missing workers. The Geological Survey of India advised against entering the last 30–50 meters due to unstable rock conditions. Consequently, a technical committee was formed to explore safe rescue options in this vulnerable area.

The committee's primary goal is to safely recover the bodies of the six missing workers and return them to their families promptly. The committee will adhere to expert advice and obtain necessary approvals before proceeding with rescue operations.

Ongoing Search Efforts Involving Multiple Agencies

An official release stated that search operations have been active since the accident occurred on February 22. Eight individuals, including engineers and labourers, were trapped when a section of the SLBC project tunnel collapsed. So far, two bodies have been recovered from the debris.

The technical committee will ensure that rescue efforts in the critical zone are conducted safely. The aim is to conclude these efforts without risking further collapses or endangering rescuers' lives. The committee will follow expert guidance throughout this process.