Tragedy Strikes: Engineer's Body Recovered in SLBC Tunnel Collapse

Rescuers recovered the body of engineer Manoj Kumar from a collapsed SLBC project tunnel after over a month, marking the second body found. The Nagarkurnool district is following ex-gratia norms. The search continues under CM Revanth Reddy’s direction, with complex challenges due to poor light and ventilation.

In a somber twist, rescuers on Tuesday retrieved the body of Manoj Kumar, one of seven individuals trapped in a collapsed tunnel of the SLBC project for over a month, as confirmed by district officials.

Nagarkurnool district Collector Badavath Santhosh reported that the discovery occurred during an extensive search operation. Manoj Kumar, an engineer from Uttar Pradesh, was working with the contracting firm when tragedy struck. His remains were sent to a government hospital for necessary post mortem procedures before being returned to his hometown in Unnao district.

Following Chief Minister A Revanth Reddy's guidance, an ex-gratia payment of Rs 25 lakh is to be provided to the bereaved family. The comprehensive search, which now involves four excavators, continues amid substantial challenges, including poor ventilation and dim lighting within the 14 km tunnel stretch.

(With inputs from agencies.)