Sikkim: 10 workers killed in collapse of tunnel being constructed

A massive disaster struck in Sikkim’s Namchi district on Monday, when a tunnel under construction collapsed, trapping around 27 workers and resulting in the deaths of at least ten, according to local reports. The incident occurred at the Samardung site, part of the Teesta Stage VI Hydroelectric Project managed by the National Hydroelectric Power Corporation. Rescue teams from the National Disaster Response Force, State Disaster Response Force, Namchi Police, and Fire and Emergency Services are currently working to extract the remaining workers. The collapse happened in the early afternoon, with a landslide blocking the entrance of the tunnel and triggering a suspected gas leak. Officials stated that the gas, likely emanating from underground strata or rock formations disrupted by the landslide, caused several rescue personnel to experience dizziness and lose consciousness during initial efforts. As of late Monday, eight of the deceased had been transported to hospitals in Singtam, Namchi, and other nearby areas. The exact number of survivors remains unclear, though multiple workers are still believed to be trapped within the structure. The affected area lies near Mamring, close to Rangpo, where the Samardung tunnel is being built as part of the larger hydroelectric project. The tunnel was one of several under development for the Teesta Stage VI project, which aims to generate substantial electricity for the region. The project has faced delays in the past due to challenging terrain and environmental concerns, but it remains a key infrastructure initiative for Sikkim. Initial reports from the Namchi Information and Public Relations Department indicated that the situation was dire, with multiple workers buried beneath debris. The presence of gas further complicated rescue operations, requiring specialized equipment and additional safety measures. Rescue teams have been operating continuously since the incident, using heavy machinery and manual excavation techniques to clear the site. Helicopters have also been deployed to assist in transporting injured personnel and supplies. The National Disaster Response Force has taken the lead in coordinating the rescue effort, supported by state-level emergency services. Local authorities have emphasized the need for caution given the unstable conditions and potential risks associated with the ongoing gas leak. Aerial surveys and ground assessments are being conducted to determine the extent of structural damage and identify safe access points for rescuers. The incident has raised questions about the safety protocols followed during tunnel construction in geologically sensitive regions. Experts suggest that such disasters highlight the importance of regular geological assessments and emergency preparedness in high-risk environments. While the focus remains on saving lives, investigators will likely examine the circumstances leading to the collapse to prevent similar incidents in the future. As of Tuesday morning, the search for missing workers continues, with rescue teams reporting progress in clearing debris and stabilizing the site. The outcome of this operation will depend on the continued coordination among all involved agencies and the stability of the surrounding area. The families of the victims are awaiting updates, with local hospitals preparing for additional casualties. The situation remains fluid, and further developments are expected in the coming hours.