Efforts to locate and rescue the eight workers trapped inside the collapsed Srisailam Left Bank Canal (SLBC) tunnel in Telangana entered their tenth day, with teams focusing on areas flagged by scientists for possible human presence.
Despite the challenges posed by water and slush, officials remain determined to expedite the operation.
A Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR) survey conducted by scientists from the National Geophysical Research Institute (NGRI) in Hyderabad identified certain "anomalies" inside the tunnel, prompting rescue teams to drill at those locations. However, only metallic objects were detected, leading scientists to explore other potential sites for human presence. Officials have assured that if required, additional GPR surveys will be conducted as conditions improve.
Chief Minister Revanth Reddy visited the site on Sunday to assess the situation and discuss strategies with rescue teams. He confirmed that while the exact location of the trapped workers remains unknown, every possible measure is being taken to expedite the operation.
A key component of the rescue efforts is the repair of a damaged conveyor belt, which is essential for clearing silt inside the tunnel. Officials expect the belt to be restored by Monday, allowing operations to progress more efficiently.
The government has reiterated its commitment to resolving the crisis and extending necessary support to the families of the trapped workers. Officials emphasise that all available resources are being deployed to ensure the safe retrieval of the engineers and labourers who have been trapped since February 22.