NAGARKURNOOL: A team of expert rat miners has arrived in Nagarkurnool to assist in the ongoing rescue operation for the Srisailam Left Bank Canal (SLBC) collapse. The collapse has left eight workers trapped, prompting urgent intervention from specialized rescue teams. These rat miners previously played a critical role in the successful Uttarkashi tunnel rescue operation in Uttarakhand last year. Their expertise in navigating tight underground spaces makes them vital in the mission to retrieve the trapped individuals safely.
One of the miners highlighted the significant challenges they expect to face during the operation. The presence of water inside the tunnel and the sheer distance of the incident site from the entrance—approximately 14 kilometers—add to the complexity of the rescue mission. Despite these obstacles, the miner expressed confidence in their ability to complete the operation successfully, citing their past experience in similar emergencies. He emphasized the importance of carefully assessing the situation inside before making further plans.
Another miner, Firoz Qureshi, stated that their team, consisting of 12 members, has been called in by the district authorities to collaborate with the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) and the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF). He explained that six miners have already reached the site, while the remaining six are expected to arrive soon. Qureshi also referenced their past success in Uttarakhand, where they helped rescue 41 trapped workers. He noted that they have received limited information about the current situation but are prepared to act immediately upon assessment.
Rescue operations at the SLBC collapse site are continuing in full force as authorities work against time to save the trapped workers. The arrival of the rat miners has provided a significant boost to the operation, raising hopes for a successful rescue. The collaboration between the specialized mining team and disaster response forces is expected to enhance efficiency in reaching the trapped individuals. Authorities remain optimistic but acknowledge that the challenging conditions inside the tunnel may prolong the operation.
