Experts Recommend Drill and Blast Method for SLBC Tunnel Rescue

An expert committee appointed by the Telangana government has recommended the drill and blast method for rescue works in the SLBC tunnel. The panel submitted its report following the tunnel collapse earlier this month. It stated that other methods would be impractical given the geological conditions. Officials said rescue operations will be recalibrated based on the committee’s recommendations. The tunnel is part of the Srisailam Left Bank Canal project near Nagarjuna Sagar. Engineers have been facing serious challenges due to unstable rock formations. Special teams with expertise in drill and blast techniques are being mobilised. Safety protocols for workers will be enhanced during the operation. Government sources confirmed that fresh tenders for machinery procurement have been floated. The rescue timeline will be updated by May first week. Monitoring committees will be set up for daily progress tracking.