Struggle to Rescue Eight Trapped Workers in Telangana Tunnel Intensifies

As search and rescue efforts continue, the families await news in despair, highlighting the dangers associated with construction work in hazardous areas.

Authorities in Telangana are engaged in an urgent mission to save eight construction workers trapped in a tunnel following a collapse that occurred over 72 hours ago. The incident took place in the Nagarkurnool district, where around 50 workers were on site for the ongoing Srisailam Left Bank Canal project, which spans 43km (approximately 26.7 miles). Tragically, while 43 workers managed to escape, the remaining eight have been stuck since early Saturday morning after a roof section caved in.

Rescue operations have faced numerous hurdles, such as unstable soil, mud, and waterlogging within the tunnel, which have delayed access to the trapped workers. The trapped individuals have not been able to communicate with rescuers, limiting efforts to supply them with crucial necessities, including oxygen.

Jupally Krishna Rao, overseeing the rescue mission, described the situation as critical, stating that "the chances of their survival are very remote." A specialized rescue team known for navigating narrow tunnels has been dispatched, recalling their successful efforts earlier this year in Uttarakhand, where 41 workers were rescued from a similar predicament.

As the operation unfolds, families of the trapped workers are growing increasingly anxious. Many are aware of the danger their loved ones face, with one father expressing hope that his son will return safely but vowing never to allow him back to work under such conditions. Others are taking a more accusatory stance towards the authorities, questioning why the workers were allowed to undertake such risky labor in an unstable environment.

The collapse occurred approximately 13km from the tunnel's opening, after a concrete slab covering roof seepage failed. Injuries were reported among workers amidst the chaos of the incident. Given the tunnel's significance as part of Telangana's major irrigation project and its location within a sensitive tiger reserve, the stakes are high for all involved.

Various rescue units, including the National Disaster Response Force and local firefighters, have been mobilized. They have made considerable progress, traversing an 11km rail link, with further attempts made via a conveyor belt, only to encounter significant obstacles. An official involved in the rescue described the difficulty of removing huge mounds of mud and debris blocking their path.

With operations ongoing, the hope for a positive outcome remains fragile as each passing hour presents new challenges. Families wait with bated breath, praying for a miracle that their loved ones will be swiftly brought back to safety.