NEW DELHI/UKHRUL (SHABD): At least eight people were killed and around 20 others remain trapped after a landslide triggered the collapse of an under-construction tunnel in Sikkim’s Namchi district on Monday, officials said. Rescue operations have been slowed by continuous rainfall and suspected toxic gas leaks inside the tunnel.
The incident occurred inside the 7-km under-construction tunnel of the Teesta Stage-VI Hydroelectric Project near Samardung. According to reports, between 25 and 38 people, including senior personnel from the National Hydroelectric Power Corporation (NHPC) and Patel Engineering, the project developer, were inside the tunnel for a routine inspection when the collapse occurred.
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So far, 12 people have been rescued, while an estimated 18 to 20 others remain trapped nearly 3 km inside the tunnel.
Search and rescue operations are underway with teams from the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), Sikkim Police, the Fire and Emergency Services, and local volunteers deployed at the site.
Reports said rescue efforts continue under challenging conditions as persistent rain has destabilised the terrain, while suspected toxic gas inside the tunnel has further complicated operations. Several rescue personnel have reportedly sustained injuries during the operation.
Reacting to the incident, PMO Office took to X, “Anguished by the loss of lives due to the collapse of an under-construction tunnel in Namchi, Sikkim. I extend my deepest condolences to the bereaved families. I pray that those injured recover at the earliest.
An ex-gratia of Rs. 2 lakh from PMNRF would be given to the next of kin of each deceased. The injured would be given Rs. 50,000: PM.”
Prime Minister Narendra Modi today spoke with Chief Minister of Sikkim, Prem Singh Tamang, to enquire about the situation and the ongoing rescue operations following the incident at the under-construction tunnel in Namchi district.
In a social media post, Mr Tamang said that the prime minister has assured all possible assistance from the central government. The Sikkim Chief Minister expressed his gratitude to the Prime Minister for his unwavering support, thoughtful concern, and steadfast solidarity with the state.
Mr Tamang noted that the NDRF, SDRF, SSDMA, district administration, local police, medical teams from Rangpo PHC, and the local community are working tirelessly and in close coordination to support the rescue efforts and provide all possible assistance to those affected.
