SLBC collapse: KTR demands justice for victims

The Srisailam Left Bank Canal (SLBC) tunnel collapse has left a lasting scar in Telangana. On February 22, 2025, a portion of the tunnel roof gave way while workers were excavating, killing eight people and leaving six bodies still trapped inside the tunnel. Months later, the families of the victims are still waiting for closure, and the incident has raised serious concerns about safety and accountability.

BRS Working President K.T. Rama Rao has strongly criticized both the Telangana state government and the Centre for negligence and inaction. He highlighted that even after more than 200 days, six bodies have not been recovered and the families have not received proper compensation or support. Rama Rao described the state government’s response as “gross negligence” and questioned the Centre’s silence on the matter.

He also compared the handling of the SLBC incident with other projects, pointing out that despite the collapse, no central investigation team was dispatched, unlike in similar cases such as the Kaleshwaram project. Rama Rao accused the two major political parties of collusion and promised that the BRS, if returned to power, would hold the responsible parties accountable and ensure justice for the victims.

“This tragedy should never have happened, and the families deserve answers, support, and justice,” Rama Rao stated. “Those responsible for the loss of eight lives must face consequences, and the reasons behind the tunnel collapse will be fully investigated.”

The SLBC collapse serves as a reminder of the human cost of large infrastructure projects and the importance of timely action, proper safety measures, and accountability from the authorities involved. Families of the victims continue to hope for answers, and the public is watching closely to see if justice will be delivered.