Gangtok: The death toll in the tunnel collapse at the under-construction NHPC Teesta Stage VI Hydropower Project in Sikkim’s Namchi district has risen to eight, while more than 25 workers are feared trapped, officials said on Tuesday. Rescue teams are continuing round-the-clock operations despite hazardous conditions inside the tunnel.
The incident occurred at the Samardung tunnel near Jholungey, where a landslide struck the under-construction project. Authorities said 16 workers were rescued safely on Monday, but the number of fatalities increased to eight as rescue efforts continued.
According to officials, the operation has been complicated by the presence of toxic gases inside the tunnel. Several rescue personnel reportedly fell ill during the operation, prompting teams to use specialised safety equipment, including gas masks, while entering the affected area.
The rescue mission is being carried out jointly by the Namchi district administration, NHPC, the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), Sikkim Police, Fire and Emergency Services, the Health Department and other agencies. The Sikkim State Disaster Management Authority (SSDMA) is closely monitoring the situation.
The bodies of the deceased have been shifted to Singtam District Hospital, STNM Hospital in Gangtok and Namchi District Hospital for further procedures.
Officials said rescue operations will continue until all those trapped are accounted for. A detailed investigation into the cause of the accident will be conducted after the rescue mission is completed.
