8 Killed as NHPC Project Tunnel Collapses in Sikkim

Gangtok, Jul 21: Eight workers were killed after an under-construction tunnel of the NHPC Teesta Stage VI Hydroelectric Project collapsed in Sikkim’s Namchi district following a landslide, Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang said on Tuesday.

The tunnel at Samardung in Jholungey caved in on Monday after a landslide blocked its entrance, trapping around 27 workers inside and triggering a suspected gas leak that severely hampered rescue efforts.

Chief Minister Tamang said Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke to him to enquire about the situation and 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 every possible assistance from the Government of India.

“His words of concern and compassion for the affected workers and their families, along with his assurance of every possible assistance from the Government of India, have provided immense strength and reassurance to the people of Sikkim during this difficult hour,” the Chief Minister said.

Officials said the rescue operation has been complicated by the presence of gas inside the tunnel. Several rescue personnel reportedly experienced dizziness and lost consciousness while attempting to reach the trapped workers.

The gas is believed to be naturally emanating from underground rock formations disturbed by the landslide, officials said. Rescue teams continue efforts to reach those trapped inside the collapsed tunnel. (Agencies)