Sikkim Tunnel Tragedy: 8 Dead, Methane Gas Leak Hampers Ops as Rescue Teams Race to Reach 20 Trapped Workers

The death toll in the under-construction tunnel disaster in Sikkim's Namchi district has risen to eight, even as intensive rescue operations continue to reach around 27 workers feared trapped inside the tunnel following a landslide and suspected methane gas leak.

The incident occurred at the National Hydroelectric Power Corporation Limited (NHPC) Teesta Stage VI Hydroelectric Project at Samardung, Jholungey at around 4.40 AM, where a landslide blocked the entrance to the under-construction tunnel on Monday afternoon, trapping workers inside.

According to the latest update from the District Administration, eight fatalities have been confirmed. The bodies have been shifted to Singtam District Hospital, STNM Hospital in Gangtok, and Namchi District Hospital.

Rescue efforts have been severely complicated by the presence of suspected methane gas inside the tunnel. Officials said that several rescue personnel experienced dizziness and even lost consciousness while attempting to enter the tunnel, making the operation particularly challenging.

Earlier, the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) had recovered one body from the site and said that methane gas was hindering rescue efforts. Multiple agencies, including the NDRF, SDRF, Sikkim Police, Fire and Emergency Services, the Health Department, NHPC officials, and other line departments, remain engaged in the operation.

Namchi District Collector Anupa Tamling said the exact number of workers trapped is yet to be verified and could be more or less than the current estimate of around 27, as authorities are still awaiting a complete assessment of conditions inside the tunnel.

She said that an NDRF team has entered the tunnel to carry out rescue operations, and a clearer picture regarding the number of workers inside and their condition will emerge once the team returns.

The Namchi District Administration said that the situation is being closely monitored by the Sikkim State Disaster Management Authority (SSDMA), with search and rescue operations continuing on a war footing. Authorities have said further updates will be issued as more information becomes available.

Amit Shah Speaks to Sikkim CM

Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Tuesday spoke to Sikkim Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang to enquire about the situation and the ongoing rescue operations following the landslide at an under-construction tunnel in the state's Namchi district. The Home Minister reviewed the rescue efforts and assured the Sikkim Chief Minister of all possible assistance from the Centre in the ongoing operations and relief measures for those affected by the incident.

The Home Minister also assured full support in the rescue efforts and reiterated that the Centre would provide "every possible help" to the people impacted by the landslide.

(With ANI inputs)