Despite hardships, SLBC tunnel rescue efforts on in full swing, says Minister Uttam Reddy
The Hindu
Telangana government leads rescue efforts for trapped workers in collapsed tunnel, with support from various agencies and experts.
HYDERABAD
The Telangana government is making all-out efforts to rescue the eight workers trapped inside the collapsed portion of the Srisailam Left Bank Canal (SLBC) project tunnel in Nagarkurnool district by the joint rescue teams comprising, Army, NDRF, SDRF, Singareni Collieries, NHIDCL personnel with the help of experts who handled the Silkyara tunnel collapse in Uttarakhand.
Minister for Irrigation N. Uttam Kumar Reddy stated that as part of the efforts to ensure a swift and safe rescue of those trapped inside, dewatering operation was going on continuously and oxygen (fresh air) is being continuously pumped into the tunnel for the survival of the trapped persons.
“We have reviewed the rescue operation with the team leads of all agencies taking part in the rescue work. The government is making all possible efforts to save the eight lives. Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy is personally monitoring the situation and the entire administration is on a high alert,” Mr. Reddy said after returning to Hyderabad from the tunnel accident site at Domalapenta.
He stated that Leader of the Opposition Rahul Gandhi spoke to the Chief Minister and expressed all support for the rescue efforts. Mr. Gandhi personally called the Chief Minister over phone on Sunday for an update, while Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke to him on Saturday, assuring all necessary assistance.
The Minister stated that the situation at the accident site was critical and the intense seepage of water and muck deposit on the tunnel floor after collapse of a portion of it was seriously hampering the rescue operation. Steps were taken to prevent waterlogging and the government was also exploring the possibility of employing alternative methods not only to clear the mud and debris inside but also to bring out those trapped in the tunnel safely.
“The natural rock formations in the tunnel became loose, causing sudden water and mud inflow. It’s a highly challenging situation and the technical experts are working round the clock to resolve the crisis”, he explained. He mentioned that taking heavy machinery into the tunnel was was difficult due to the terrain, but officials were working on alternate methods to remove the debris.
Abhishek Banerjee challenges BJP's Suvendu Adhikari in Nandigram, pledging community health initiatives if Trinamool Congress wins.
Rising LPG shortages in Karnataka boost firewood demand, reviving an informal market as households and hotels seek alternatives.
Against the backdrop of intense poll activity, a 400-metre stretch of an arterial road in the outskirts of Chennai (technically in Madurapakkam panchayat under Tambaram assembly constituency) presents a salute to the idea of res publica, which underpins India’s system of governance, where citizens have a say, at least before a government is securely ensconced in the seat of power. A Republic Day initiative shines bright every night
Fadnavis claims zero FIR in Ajit Pawar crash is a defamation attempt by Karnataka against Maharashtra's investigation efforts.
Set to unfold as a one-day pop-up on April 5, the Easter Sadya brings together both vegetarian and non-vegetarian menus, offering a peek into the food traditions of the Syrian Christian (Nasrani) community. While the traditional Sadya is often associated with dishes such as sambar, avial, and rice, this version expands to include community-specific festive dishes.
BJP nominates mother of R.G. Kar victim Abhaya to contest from Panihati in West Bengal Assembly elections.
Veteran Malayalam actor-director E.A. Rajendran passes away at 71, leaving behind a rich legacy in the film industry.
Dakshina Kannada Zilla Panchayat has rolled out digital mode of water bill generation and collection in 23 gram panchayats on a pilot basis for the first time in Karnataka. This is set to be extended to the remaining 200 panchayats shortly, according to the Zilla Panchayat Chief Executive Officer Narwade Vinayak Karbhari.
Bengaluru police questioned a man carrying ₹6 lakh for medical expenses at Vidhana Soudha, later releasing him after verification.
BJP accuses Bengaluru's Congress government of corruption in e-Khata issuance, halting infrastructure projects due to financial mismanagement.
Misinformation in Hyderabad sparks panic buying, causing disruptions as residents react to unfounded rumors of an impending lockdown.
Bengaluru Metro extends services until 2 a.m. on March 28 for IPL match, ensuring convenient travel for spectators.
A bus truck-collision in Andhra Pradesh's Markapuram district, killing several. Catch LIVE updates here!