SLBC Tunnel Collapse: Last 7000 cubic metres of debris to be removed

The SLBC tunnel accident, which occurred on February 22 continues to be a challenging ordeal. The focus of the rescue teams is now mainly on the removal of the last 7000 cubic metres of debris that is still left in the tunnel end. The debris which is lying at a height of three metres, is spread over a 50 metre stretch close to the cave-in spot. The operations were scaled up by engaging as many as four mini-excavators.

The teams are working in three shifts in the last stretch of the tunnel where the missing workers were suspected to have been trapped. The bodies of two of the eight persons reported missing in the incident were recovered in the tunnel.

SLBC Tunnel Special Officer



Shivashankar Lotheti reviewed the operations on Wednesday. The rescue efforts involve advanced machinery and techniques, including excavators, bobcats, and conveyor belts, to remove debris and transport soil out of the tunnel. The process was slow, but meticulous. Safety continues to be the top priority.

The teams are also cutting and removing parts of the Tunnel Boring Machine (TBM) and dewatering the site to manage rising water seepage. Experts from the Geological Survey of India, Irrigation departments, and tunnel construction specialists are providing guidance to ensure the operations proceed smoothly. Regular monitoring of soil conditions, water flow, and weather is being conducted to adapt strategies as needed.