Seismology experts to join SLBC Tunnel rescue mission

The search and rescue mission at the SLBC tunnel project has entered its 11th day as efforts to locate the eight missing workers and engineers continue. A four-member team from the National Centre for Seismology (NCS) is set to join the rescue operations on Tuesday in response to a request for assistance from the State government.

The State government had sought the Centre’s help to conduct a seismological study, which is intended to locate the trapped workers and assess the structural condition of the tunnel following the roof collapse. This study will also evaluate the extent of water saturation in the affected area, providing crucial information for planning and executing the rescue operations more



effectively.

Manual excavation is ongoing at eight points identified by the NGRI using a Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR). It is hoped that the detected anomalies may lead to a breakthrough. Rescue operations continue around the clock in three shifts. The restoration of the conveyor belt, a priority for the operations, has not yet been fully completed. Once the conveyor belt is fully operational, the removal of debris will gain momentum.

Meanwhile, the process of dismantling the tunnel bore machine is in progress. SCCL workers are fully engaged in using gas cutters, and the wreckage of the Tunnel Boring Machine (TBM) is being shifted to an outside yard using a locomotive.