Namchi: A tunnel collapse in Sikkim’s Namchi has left at least 11 people dead and several others injured. Fifteen others are trapped under the rubble, even as rescuers brave continuous rainfall and rough terrain to reach them.
A section of the 7-km under-construction tunnel of the Teesta Stage-VI Hydroelectric Project near Samardung, in the Namchi district collapsed on Monday after a landslide.
There were between 25 and 38 people, including high-level personnel from the National Hydroelectric Power Corporation (NHPC) and Patel Engineering, the project developer, who were on a routine inspection, at the site at that time, as reported by The Indian Express.
Continuous rainfall is destabilising the terrain and hampering progress, while suspected toxic gas leaks inside the shaft have complicated the search operation, sources said.
Sixteen people have been rescued by emergency teams, while 15 others remain trapped, roughly 3 km underground. This was confirmed by Sonam Dolma Bhutia, SP, Namchi.
Teams from the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), State Disaster Response Force, Sikkim Police, fire departments, and local volunteers are working together to get the people out. Several personnel have sustained injuries in the hazardous conditions.
Expressing grief over the deaths, Sikkim chief minister P S Tamang confirmed that authorities are deploying every resource available. He also urged the public to stay calm, avoid circulating unverified rumours, and stand united in support of the affected families.
“I am deeply saddened by the tragic incident at the under-construction tunnel of the NHPC Teesta Stage VI Hydroelectric Project at Samardung, Jholungey, in Namchi district. My heartfelt condolences go to the families of the workers who have lost their lives. In this hour of grief, the thoughts and prayers of the entire state are with the bereaved families, and we stand firmly by them during this difficult time,” he said.
“I am closely monitoring the ongoing rescue operations. I appreciate the dedication and courage of all personnel involved in this challenging rescue mission. I have directed all concerned authorities to extend every possible assistance, expedite the rescue efforts, and ensure that the highest standards of safety are strictly followed throughout the operation. We remain committed to doing everything possible to bring the rescue operation to a safe and successful conclusion,” Tamang posted.
He has also briefed Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union home minister Amit Shah on the rescue efforts, Tamang said.
“His (PM Modi’s) 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 CM said, adding that Shah also assured assistance from the Centre.
The Prime Minister has also announced ex-gratia relief of Rs 2 lakh from the Prime Minister’s National Relief Fund for the families of those killed. The injured will receive Rs 50,000.