Hydropower – Sikkim Tunnel Tragedy Death Toll Reaches 22 as Rescue Work Continues
Hydropower – The death toll in the tunnel accident at the NHPC Teesta Stage VI Hydropower Project in Sikkim’s Namchi district has climbed to 22 after rescue personnel recovered nine more bodies during an overnight operation. Authorities confirmed the latest figures on Thursday, while search teams continued working to locate the remaining workers believed to be trapped inside the under-construction tunnel.
Overnight Rescue Efforts Intensify
Emergency teams carried out search operations throughout the night despite difficult working conditions inside the tunnel. Officials said the recovery effort gained additional strength after a second specialist rescue team from Eastern Coalfields Limited (ECL), Asansol, reached the site at around 10 pm on Wednesday. The newly arrived personnel immediately joined the existing teams, allowing rescue work to continue uninterrupted until midnight.
Authorities stated that the challenging environment inside the tunnel has slowed progress, but teams remain committed to recovering every missing worker. Rescue personnel are using specialised equipment while carefully navigating hazardous conditions created by debris, mud, and restricted visibility.
Multiple Agencies Working Together
The operation involves coordinated efforts by several emergency response agencies, including the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), mining experts from Eastern Coalfields Limited, and other specialised rescue units. Officials said these teams are maintaining close coordination to ensure the search proceeds safely while minimising further risks.
The Sikkim government, district administration, and other concerned departments are closely monitoring developments at the accident site. Authorities have assured that all necessary logistical support is being provided to rescue personnel as well as assistance to the families of those affected by the tragedy.
Rescue Work Resumed After Temporary Halt
Rescue activities had briefly been suspended on Wednesday after a significant accumulation of mud and water inside the tunnel created unsafe conditions for emergency responders. Once the water levels were brought under control and visibility improved, rescue agencies resumed full-scale operations.
Officials said the improved conditions enabled specialised teams to re-enter the tunnel and continue the difficult task of locating those still trapped. Despite progress, the recovery mission remains complex because of the unstable underground environment.
Chief Minister Announces Relief and Inquiry
Earlier this week, Sikkim Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang visited the accident site and announced financial assistance for the families of the victims. He also said the state government would conduct a detailed investigation into the incident to determine its exact cause.
Addressing reporters, the Chief Minister said the administration responded immediately after the accident by deploying multiple rescue agencies and mobilising resources required for the operation. He further stated that if the investigation establishes negligence on the part of the executing company, strict legal action will be taken against those found responsible.
Explosion Believed to Have Triggered the Incident
According to NHPC officials, the accident took place on July 20 inside the under-construction Head Race Tunnel (HRT) at Samardung. Preliminary findings indicate that a sudden release of suspected methane gas trapped within underground rock formations triggered an explosion.
The blast reportedly filled the tunnel with dense smoke and toxic gases, creating dangerous conditions for workers inside. The incident prompted a large-scale emergency response involving disaster management agencies, mining specialists, and local authorities.
Rescue teams continue their search inside the tunnel, with officials stating that operations will proceed until every missing worker has been accounted for. Authorities are expected to provide further updates as the recovery mission advances and the official inquiry into the accident progresses.