At least eight people have died after an under-construction hydroelectric tunnel caved in at Samardung in Namchi district, Sikkim. Emergency responders are currently carrying out works to rescue 25 workers believed to still be trapped inside.
The incident occurred on Monday when a section of a tunnel belonging to the NHPC Teesta Hydroelectric Project (Stage 6) caved in, completely blocking the main entry point and sealing off access to the underground workspace.
Namchi District Collector Anupa Tamling confirmed the ongoing rescue operations, noting that initial estimates from relevant departments suggest around 25 workers remain trapped. "Rescue teams are making every possible effort to safely rescue the trapped workers," Tamling said, acknowledging the grave situation on the ground.
Rescue efforts, however, are facing severe hurdles due to the depth of the tunnel. Officials reported critical challenges deep underground, including a rapidly depleting oxygen supply and potential gas leaks, which are drastically complicating the operation.
"The rescue teams are making every possible effort to safely rescue the trapped workers but the conditions inside are extremely hazardous and challenging," Tamling added. "Emergency teams, medical personnel, and disaster response forces remain on site as efforts to clear the debris and pump oxygen into the tunnel continue."
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