The Telangana government has launched an aerial electromagnetic survey to accelerate the prestigious Srisailam Left Bank Canal (SLBC) tunnel works. Chief Minister Revanth Reddy and Irrigation Minister Uttam Kumar Reddy will inaugurate the project on Monday. The CM will depart from Begumpet Airport by helicopter and later review the survey operations near Achampet.
Under expert guidance, the government has approved a helicopter-based VTEM plus magnetic geophysical survey led by scientists from the National Geophysical Research Institute. A 24-meter transmitter loop attached to the helicopter will scan the tunnel route, sending electromagnetic signals up to 1,000 meters deep. This advanced method will help detect cracks or trapped water zones, ensuring faster and safer excavation.
To enhance technical supervision, the state has appointed Lt. Gen. Harpal Singh (Retd) as chief advisor and Col. Parikshit Mehra as tunneling expert. Once completed, the project will transport water by gravity, saving the government over ₹500 crore in annual electricity costs.
The 43.93 km tunnel, part of the Elimnati Madhava Reddy Project, aims to provide irrigation to 3 lakh acres and safe drinking water to fluoride-affected villages. Completion is targeted for mid-2028.
