Heavy transformers of TBM removed between D1, D2 points of search in SLBC tunnel

Multi-agency teams intensify excavation in Srisailam tunnel, using cadaver dogs and radar to locate trapped persons efficiently.

HYDERABAD

The multi-agency rescue teams continued the excavation work in search of seven more persons trapped under the debris in the Srisailam Left Bank Canal (SLBC) tunnel on the 24th day on Monday by intensifying the digging work between D1 and D2 points identified by the cadaver sniffer dogs and ground probing radar (GPR) scanning.

According to the officials monitoring the rescue work, the rescue teams removed heavy transformers pertaining to the tunnel boring machine (TBM) between the two points with the help of excavators. The process of cutting the upper compartment of the TBM platform into pieces was also completed up to the D1 point.

The muck and other debris till that last 50 meters of the tunnel was being shifted with the help of excavators and loaded onto the conveyor belt and the locomotive trolleys located at about 400-500 meters from the digging point for transporting it out of the tunnel to facilitate the rescue teams speed up the work of tracing the trapped persons.

As of Monday, about 80 meters area from the point of hopper, the last point or loader point of the conveyor belt, was completely cleared of mud and other debris, including silt, metal parts of the TBM. The officials stated that water jets were being used to expose the buried metal components for cutting them into pieces and shifting them out of the tunnel.

The process of dewatering was also in progress to facilitate the rescue teams take up the work without much difficulty. The human remains detection dogs (HRDDs) or cadaver dogs were sent into the tunnel on Monday to search for human remains.