Sikkim Tunnel Collapse: Death Toll Rises to 10, Rescue Operations Continue Amid Gas Leak Challenges
Sikkim Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang visited the site and is personally overseeing operations.
NAMCHI— At least 10 workers have been killed after a landslide triggered the collapse of an under-construction tunnel in Sikkim’s Namchi district on Monday, with rescue teams battling hazardous conditions to reach others still feared trapped inside.
The incident occurred around 3:40 PM on July 20 at the Samardung (Samardong) tunnel (ADIT-3) in Jholungey/Mamring area. The tunnel forms part of the NHPC Teesta Stage VI Hydroelectric Project, executed by contractor Patel Engineering. A landslide blocked the tunnel entrance, causing a collapse and suspected methane gas leak from disturbed underground rock formations.
10 bodies have been recovered so far and shifted to Singtam District Hospital, STNM Hospital in Gangtok, and Namchi District Hospital.
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Around 27 workers (approximately 21 from Patel Engineering and 6 from NHPC) are feared trapped, though the exact number remains unconfirmed as rescuers have not fully assessed conditions inside. Some reports mention injured workers receiving treatment, with PM Modi announcing support for them.
No comprehensive official injured count has been released beyond those who succumbed, as focus remains on search and rescue.
Rescue efforts by the Namchi district administration, in coordination with NDRF, SDRF, Sikkim Police, Fire and Emergency Services, and Health Department, are underway in extremely challenging conditions.
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Key obstacles include heavy debris blocking the entrance, toxic methane gas causing dizziness and fainting among rescuers, poor visibility, and confined space. Teams are using gas masks and protective equipment; specialized rescue teams from Pakyong, Siliguri, and West Bengal have joined. Ambulances are on standby.
NDRF Deputy Commander Vivek Kumar confirmed 10 bodies recovered while noting the possibility of more people inside. The Sikkim State Disaster Management Authority (SSDMA) is closely monitoring the situation.
Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang visited the site and is personally overseeing operations. In a post on X, he thanked PM Modi for his concern and assurance of central assistance, stating: “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.” He directed all departments to expedite rescue, support affected families, and maintain highest safety standards. He also appealed to the public to avoid spreading unverified information.
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Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed anguish over the loss of lives. In a post on X, he said: “Anguished by the loss of lives due to the collapse of an under-construction tunnel in Namchi, Sikkim. I extend my deepest condolences to the bereaved families. I pray that those injured recover at the earliest.” He announced ex-gratia of Rs 2 lakh from the Prime Minister’s National Relief Fund (PMNRF) to the next of kin of each deceased and Rs 50,000 to the injured. He spoke directly to CM Tamang, assuring all possible central support for rescue and relief.
Union Home Minister Amit Shah also spoke to CM Tamang, enquired about the situation, and assured full central assistance for rescue operations and support to those affected.
District Collector Anupa Tamling and other officials have emphasized that a clearer picture will emerge once teams complete interior assessment. A formal probe into the cause is expected after rescue operations conclude.
This tragedy highlights the risks of infrastructure development in the seismically active and landslide-prone Himalayan region, especially during the monsoon. Rescue operations are continuing round-the-clock, with updates expected as more information becomes available.
