The Telangana government has decided to resume work on the Srisailam Left Bank Canal (SLBC) tunnel project after a year-long hiatus following an tragic incident in February last year, when a portion of the tunnel’s roof collapsed. 

The collapse, which occurred in Nagarkurnool district along the Krishna river, led to the removal of debris, including the Tunnel Boring Machine (TBM). State officials have moved some machinery to the site, with plans for further equipment arrival. State Irrigation Minister N Uttam Kumar Reddy held a review meeting to discuss resuming the work. The government has opted to abandon the TBM method used previously, finding it unsuitable for the conditions. Instead, advanced technology will be implemented, including a 3D monitoring system to enhance safety and structural integrity. 

The project, spanning 42 km, will provide irrigation to 3,00,000 acres and supply drinking water to fluoride-affected villages. Completion of the tunnel is expected to make it the world’s longest, with a budget estimated at Rs 4,600 crore.