SLBC back on track

Work on the Srisailam Left Bank Canal (SLBC) tunnel, one of Telangana’s most critical irrigation projects, is gaining momentum once again. After being halted last year following a major accident, the government has completed scientific assessments and put in place a special monitoring system to restart construction. With a target to complete the project by December 2027, officials have been directed to ensure round-the-clock work, and a dedicated engineering division has been set up to oversee progress closely.

In February 2025, a portion of the tunnel collapsed in the Nallamala forest region, trapping eight workers and bringing excavation to a standstill. The incident sparked widespread concern across the state. Subsequent investigations revealed that underground water flows, silt movement, and unstable rock formations were key factors behind the collapse. In response, comprehensive geological studies were undertaken under the supervision of the National Geophysical Research Institute (NGRI). These studies assessed subsurface conditions, including groundwater patterns and soil stability, providing critical guidance for the safe resumption of tunnel work.

Based on these expert findings, officials decided to modify the excavation methodology. Instead of using the previously employed Tunnel Boring Machine (TBM), the project will now follow a drill-and-blast approach, which is considered more suitable for the region’s geological conditions. Authorities said that real-time monitoring systems will be installed to track underground movements, and additional support structures will be reinforced along vulnerable sections to enhance safety.

To ensure close supervision, the government has established a special engineering division tasked with reviewing daily progress. Senior officials have been assigned responsibilities to monitor work status and ensure adherence to timelines. Strict warnings have been issued against delays or negligence. The SLBC tunnel, stretching nearly 44 kilometres, is expected to provide irrigation water to lakhs of acres in districts such as Nalgonda and Nagarkurnool. It will also improve drinking water supply to numerous villages across southern Telangana.

The total project cost is estimated at over Rs 4,000 crore, with a substantial portion already completed. However, challenging underground conditions require careful technical planning and safety precautions. Officials are under pressure to balance safe construction practices with the need to meet the December 2027 deadline. The pace of work over the next few months will be crucial in determining whether the project can be completed on time.

With renewed government focus on accelerating construction, the SLBC project has picked up speed. Minister Uttam Kumar Reddy has been holding consecutive review meetings with officials and contractors to assess progress and address bottlenecks. In recent high-level meetings, detailed discussions were held on tunnel excavation, lining, and electromechanical works. Sections that experienced delays have been identified, and a specific action plan has been ordered to address them.

The Chief Minister has directed that weekly progress reports be submitted without fail. Contractors have been warned that any further lapses or delays will result in strict action. A clear roadmap has been drawn up for completing the remaining civil works, achieving tunnel breakthrough, strengthening support structures, and implementing the pumping system. Dedicated engineering teams have been assigned to each stage of execution.