Eight workers feared trapped after tunnel collapse in Telangana
- The tunnel collapse occurred in Telangana, India, on February 21, 2025, during construction work on an irrigation project.
- While many workers escaped, six to eight individuals are feared trapped, and specialized rescue efforts are underway.
- Rescue missions face daunting challenges, including flooding and structural instability, leading to concerns about worker safety.
In Telangana, India, a tragic incident occurred when the roof of an under-construction tunnel collapsed, trapping eight workers on February 21, 2025. This accident transpired at a stretch of the Srisailam Left Bank Canal (SLBC), approximately 200 kilometers from the state capital, Hyderabad. While dozens of workers managed to escape, the presence of slush and flooding has complicated rescue efforts. As teams continue their search, authorities have called in specialists experienced in navigating narrow tunnels—a move that reflects the severity of the situation. The rescue operation faced numerous challenges, including rising slush walls and significant flooding, which introduced concerns about the structural integrity of the tunnel itself. Reports indicated that around 3,200 liters of water per minute were seeping into the tunnel, combining with the earth and debris to form a mud mixture that hindered access to the trapped workers. Alongside these conditions, a dilapidated tunnel boring machine presented further setbacks in the rescue mission, complicating efforts to reach those stuck. Efforts were being made to clear the track to facilitate the transport of necessary equipment. State officials, including Chief Minister A Revanth Reddy, have been actively involved in the rescue efforts, directing resources and personnel to manage the crisis effectively. Despite these efforts, the prospects for the trapped workers appear grim, as rescuers have reported a significant breakdown in internal communication within the tunnel, rendering any direct contact with the trapped individuals impossible since the incident occurred. The government has faced criticism from opposition parties regarding management and safety protocols surrounding the construction site, as past allegations of compromised standards echo fears about worker safety. The current scenario poses a stark reminder of the importance of regulatory diligence in construction projects, especially those of considerable scale like the SLBC, and the potentially tragic consequences of oversight failures. As rescue teams continue to work against time, the hope remains that timely intervention can avert further loss of life and bring the trapped workers to safety.