Daijiworld Media Network – Telangana
Telangana, Mar 3: Ten days after the partial collapse of the Srisailam Left Bank Canal (SLBC) project tunnel, the Telangana government is exploring the use of robotic technology in rescue operations to safeguard personnel, officials said on Monday.
The rescue mission remains challenging due to large amounts of slush and water inside the tunnel, where eight engineers and laborers have been trapped since February 22. Specialized teams from the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), the Indian Army, and the Navy are making relentless efforts to bring them to safety.
Nagarkurnool Superintendent of Police Vaibhav Gaikwad confirmed that discussions on deploying robotic equipment took place, emphasizing the need to ensure rescuers' safety. “We are considering all possible measures, including advanced technology and expert personnel. The idea of using robots in this operation was discussed, and we are actively exploring it,” he said.
Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy, who inspected the tunnel on Sunday, advised officials to deploy robotic equipment if necessary to avoid potential risks to rescue teams. Meanwhile, rescue workers continue efforts to dewater the tunnel, clear silt, and create an accessible passage.
A major hurdle remains a tunnel boring machine (TBM) stuck in the debris. Officials reported that sections of the machine are being cut to make way for progress. Additionally, repairs on a damaged conveyor belt, crucial for clearing obstructions, are expected to be completed by Tuesday, according to project contractors.
State Special Chief Secretary (Disaster Management) Arvind Kumar, after reviewing the situation with rescue agencies, confirmed that efforts are being accelerated using modern technology. Officials are also working to prevent further water seepage into the tunnel from above and its sides.
A Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR) survey conducted by the National Geophysical Research Institute (NGRI) to locate the trapped workers has so far only detected metal objects. Scientists remain on standby to conduct further surveys as conditions improve.
Meanwhile, the Telangana High Court on Monday disposed of a PIL seeking urgent government intervention, after the Advocate General informed the court that multiple agencies are actively engaged in the rescue efforts.
CM Revanth Reddy reiterated the government’s commitment to resolving the crisis, stating that once the damaged conveyor belt is repaired, the rescue operations would gain momentum. He also assured support for the affected families and pledged all necessary resources to expedite the mission.