Telangana CM Proposes Robotic Aid in SLBC Tunnel Rescue Efforts
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Synopsis
Telangana CM A. Revanth Reddy suggests deploying robots in rescue efforts for the SLBC tunnel collapse, where eight workers have been missing since February 22. He emphasizes the importance of preventing further loss of life and ensuring the safety of all personnel involved.
Key Takeaways
- Telangana CM advocates for robot usage in rescue.
- 8 workers missing since February 22 in SLBC tunnel.
- Rescue teams face significant challenges.
- Government pledges support for affected families.
- Criticism of opposition parties for unfounded remarks.
Hyderabad, Jan 2 (NationPress) Telangana Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy proposed the integration of robotic technology for rescue operations in the partially-collapsed Srisailama Left Bank Canal (SLBC) tunnel, where eight individuals have been trapped since February 22.
During his visit to the site on Sunday, the Chief Minister conducted a review meeting with the agencies participating in the rescue efforts, urging officials to explore the feasibility of using robots to avert any additional loss of life.
He informed the press that the government prioritizes the safety of the personnel engaged in rescue activities.
In the meeting, he advocated for the inclusion of robotic systems in the rescue operations alongside human resources. “There should be no further loss of human lives. So many people are going inside to work. We want to ensure their safety,” he remarked.
Revanth Reddy noted that teams from 11 premier agencies, including the Army and Navy, are actively working to locate the missing individuals, with a conclusion expected in the next 2-3 days.
“The eight missing persons have not yet been found. Experts cannot determine whether they are alive or deceased,” he stated.
He highlighted the challenges faced by rescue teams, including water seepage and silt accumulation 13 km into the tunnel. The Chief Minister mentioned that the conveyor belt, which is essential for removing debris, is currently non-operational, but he expressed hope that it would be fixed by Monday evening to expedite the operations.
Revanth Reddy pointed out that despite the identification of potential areas, the agencies have not reached a definitive conclusion regarding the whereabouts of the machinery and individuals involved.
He pledged that the state government would provide full support to the families of the eight workers, who had traveled from other states for their jobs. “It is the government's duty to assist them,” he emphasized, calling for unity in comforting the affected families.
The Chief Minister criticized opposition parties for their negative remarks regarding the government's rapid response in initiating rescue operations and involving top agencies from both the central and state levels, as well as leading experts in tunnel operations.
He affirmed that opposition leaders were permitted to visit the project site and offer their recommendations. “In past incidents at the SLBC power generation unit, I was arrested for attempting to visit the site. Unlike those times, the current government has allowed visits,” he pointed out.
Irrigation Minister Uttam Kumar Reddy confirmed that 11 agencies, including the Army, Navy's MARCOS, Border Roads Organisation, National Highway Infrastructure Development Corporation, Railways, Singareni Collieries, NDRF, SDRF, NGRI, and Geological Survey of India, are collaborating under a unified command.
