Synopsis
The rescue operation for eight trapped individuals in a collapsed tunnel in Telangana continues. Officials deny media claims about bodies being discovered and emphasize ongoing efforts using advanced technology and multiple rescue teams.Key Takeaways
- Rescue operation for eight trapped individuals ongoing.
- Claims of bodies found in the tunnel are false.
- Ground Penetrating Radar used to aid rescue efforts.
- Advanced technology and multiple agencies are involved.
- Health teams secured oxygen supplies for trapped individuals.
Hyderabad, Feb 28 (NationPress) The rescue efforts for eight individuals trapped in a partially collapsed tunnel in Telangana’s Nagarkurnool district are ongoing, as stated by a senior official on Friday. He refuted claims circulating in the media that rescue teams have discovered deceased bodies.
The Nagarkurnool district Collector, Badavath Santosh, informed reporters that such news is false.
He urged the press to refrain from disseminating unverified information, as it causes unnecessary panic.
When asked about reports indicating that the Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR) technology had detected potential locations of human remains, he clarified that the rescue operations are being carried out based on the assessments from the National Geophysical Research Institute (NGRI).
“The NGRI has pinpointed certain areas, but we cannot guarantee that it is entirely accurate. It could be metal or other materials. We will proceed based on their findings,” the Collector stated, adding that any discoveries will be communicated to the media through official channels.
Efforts to desilt and cut through debris are ongoing as part of the enhanced rescue initiative, he noted.
To expedite the rescue, the authorities are following a meticulously structured plan, employing cutting-edge technology. Officials reported that water is being pumped out from the site, and debris is being cleared with plasma gas cutters. All essential rescue equipment is being prepared to ensure efficient operations. A conveyor belt will be deployed shortly, and excavators are ready to eliminate sludge.
Specialized cameras and sensors are continuously monitoring the internal conditions of the tunnel.
The District Collector, alongside the SP, Special Secretary of Irrigation, Prashant Jeevan Patil, NDRF Officer Sukhendu, TSSPDCL CMD Musharraf Ali, and representatives from the Army, Singareni Collieries, HYDRAA, and JP Company evaluated the rescue operations.
Medical teams have ensured that oxygen supplies are available. To hasten the rescue, 12 teams are working around the clock, including personnel from the Army, NDRF, SDRF, Singareni Mines Rescue, Fire Services, NGRI, HYDRAA, and South Central Railway plasma cutters, along with rat miners. These teams are collaborating to accelerate the rescue efforts.
Extensive rescue operations by 12 agencies have persisted in the Srisailam Left Bank Canal (SLBC) tunnel for the seventh consecutive day.
The incident occurred on February 22, when a section of the tunnel roof collapsed at the 14th km point, injuring two workers and trapping eight others.
The trapped individuals, including two engineers and two machine operators, are from Jharkhand, Uttar Pradesh, and Jammu & Kashmir.
