Eight workers died after a tunnel collapse at the NHPC Teesta Stage VI Hydroelectric Project in Sikkim, while rescue teams continue efforts for those trapped
Eight workers have been confirmed dead after an under-construction tunnel collapsed at the NHPC Teesta Stage VI Hydroelectric Project in Namchi district, Sikkim. Rescue operations remain underway as authorities work to reach workers trapped inside the tunnel amid difficult conditions caused by a suspected underground gas leak.
Gangtok: Eight workers were killed after an under-construction tunnel at the NHPC Teesta Stage VI Hydroelectric Project collapsed in Sikkim's Namchi district, Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang said on Tuesday. Rescue teams continue operations to locate and evacuate workers who remain trapped inside the tunnel.
The incident occurred at the Samardung tunnel in Jholungey after a landslide caused the entrance to cave in on Monday afternoon. Officials said the collapse also led to a suspected underground gas leak, making rescue efforts more challenging.
"Eight workers have lost their lives in the tunnel collapse, and rescue operations are continuing," Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang said.
Sikkim Tunnel Collapse Rescue Operation Continues
According to officials, around 27 workers were trapped inside the tunnel after the landslide blocked the entrance. Rescue teams have been working continuously to access the affected section, but the operation has been slowed by hazardous conditions inside the tunnel.
Authorities said several rescue personnel experienced dizziness and temporarily lost consciousness while attempting to enter the tunnel due to the presence of gas.
Officials believe the gas is naturally emanating from underground rock formations disturbed by the landslide. Teams are monitoring the situation while taking safety precautions before advancing further into the tunnel.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi Speaks to Sikkim Chief Minister
Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang said Prime Minister Narendra Modi contacted him to review the situation and enquire about the ongoing rescue operations.
In a post on X, Tamang said the Prime Minister expressed concern for the affected workers and their families and assured all possible assistance from the Government of India.
"The Prime Minister assured every possible assistance from the Government of India for the rescue efforts and the affected families," Tamang said.
NHPC Teesta Stage VI Project Incident Under Review
The tunnel is part of the NHPC Teesta Stage VI Hydroelectric Project under construction in Namchi district. Authorities are continuing rescue operations while assessing the impact of the landslide and the conditions inside the tunnel.
Further details regarding the remaining trapped workers and the progress of rescue efforts are awaited from officials.
