TunnelCollapse – Sikkim Tunnel Disaster Claims 12 Lives as Rescue Efforts Continue
TunnelCollapse – The death toll in the NHPC tunnel collapse in Sikkim’s Namchi district has increased to 12, while rescue teams continue their search for an estimated 13 to 15 people who are still believed to be trapped inside the under-construction tunnel. Authorities said the operation remains highly challenging due to hazardous conditions within the site, including concerns over toxic gases and unstable surroundings.
Multi-Agency Teams Continue Around-the-Clock Rescue
Officials said rescue personnel from several specialised agencies remain engaged in an extensive search operation. Namchi District Superintendent of Police Sonam Dolma confirmed that 12 bodies have been recovered so far, while efforts are continuing to locate those still missing.
The rescue mission involves the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), Sikkim Police, Fire and Emergency Services, and coal mining specialists with expertise in underground rescue operations. Teams are working carefully inside the tunnel while monitoring gas levels and structural safety to reduce risks to rescuers.
State Government Announces Compensation and Inquiry
Sikkim Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang visited the accident site and announced financial assistance for the affected families. The state government will provide Rs 4 lakh to the families of those who lost their lives and Rs 50,000 to those injured in the incident.
The Chief Minister also assured that a comprehensive investigation would be conducted to determine the cause of the tragedy. He said strict action would be taken if the inquiry establishes any negligence or safety lapses by the company responsible for executing the project.
According to Tamang, the state administration immediately mobilised emergency response teams after learning about the accident. Police, SDRF, NDRF and other agencies reached the location without delay to begin rescue operations inside the tunnel.
Methane Gas Burst Suspected Behind Accident
NHPC stated that the incident occurred on July 20 inside the Head Race Tunnel (HRT) being constructed as part of the Teesta Stage-VI Hydroelectric Project at Samardung.
The company said preliminary findings suggest 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.
Emergency response procedures were activated immediately after the accident. Rescue efforts have since been carried out jointly by the district administration, NDRF, SDRF, local authorities and a specialised rescue unit from the Directorate General of Mines Safety (DGMS). Senior NHPC officials have also remained at the site to oversee the ongoing response.
Investigation to Determine Exact Cause
NHPC said a detailed technical investigation will establish the precise sequence of events that led to the accident. The company has pledged full cooperation with investigating authorities and rescue agencies while extending support to the families affected by the tragedy.
Officials noted that the operation has been slowed by continuous rainfall, water accumulation inside parts of the tunnel and concerns over the presence of hazardous gases. Chemical experts and gas assessment teams have been deployed to regularly evaluate conditions before rescue personnel proceed deeper into the collapsed section.
Centre Extends Support to Sikkim
The tragedy has drawn attention from both the state and central governments. Union Minister Manohar Lal Khattar expressed condolences to the families of the victims and assured all necessary assistance for the ongoing rescue mission.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi also reviewed the situation with Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang and announced financial assistance from the Prime Minister’s National Relief Fund. The families of those who died will receive an ex gratia payment of Rs 2 lakh each, while injured workers will receive Rs 50,000.
Authorities have reiterated that rescue operations will continue until every missing worker has been located. At the same time, investigators are examining all aspects of the incident to determine whether additional safety measures are required for similar infrastructure projects in the future.