Rescue teams are in a desperate race against time to save eight workers who have been trapped for over two days inside a collapsed tunnel in Telangana. Authorities have expressed concerns over their survival, as water accumulation and debris continue to obstruct the operation.

The 44-km tunnel, located behind the Srisailam dam in Nagarkurnool, caved in on Saturday morning while repairs were underway to fix a leakage. While several workers managed to escape, eight remain unaccounted for since the collapse.

State minister Krishna Rao, who is overseeing the rescue efforts, confirmed that the trapped individuals include four labourers and four employees of the construction firm involved in the project.

The rescue mission has seen coordinated efforts from the Army, the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), and state emergency teams. Additionally, a group of Navy commandos has arrived to assist, along with six specialists who were part of the successful 2023 Silkyara tunnel rescue in Uttarakhand.

The collapse site is located approximately 13 km inside the tunnel, and rescue teams have managed to close in on the last 100 metres. However, the massive buildup of sludge and water is making progress extremely difficult.

“The situation inside is dire, with the passage blocked by heavy debris. The rescuers are navigating the unstable terrain using wooden planks and rubber tubes. The chances of survival seem slim, but we are doing everything possible,” said Minister Rao.

Concerns have also been raised regarding the stability of the collapsed section, as shifting boulders have been heard, suggesting continued instability. Reports indicate that cracks in the tunnel walls have allowed water to seep in, necessitating urgent dewatering efforts.

Authorities are continuously monitoring the situation at both the central and state levels. Chief Minister Revanth Reddy has been actively reviewing rescue operations and has directed officials to expedite the removal of debris and ensure adequate oxygen supply to the trapped workers. The rescue teams are also exploring alternative access points to reach the affected area.

Congress leader Rahul Gandhi, whose party is in power in Telangana, reached out to Chief Minister Reddy for updates, while Prime Minister Narendra Modi has assured full support from the central government in the ongoing efforts.