Publish Date: Tue, 21 Jul 2026 (10:38 IST)
Updated Date: Tue, 21 Jul 2026 (14:48 IST)
Eight workers lost their lives after an under-construction tunnel collapsed in Sikkim's Namchi district, Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang confirmed on Tuesday.
According to the Chief Minister's Office, rescue operations are continuing at the site. Authorities said the exact number of workers trapped inside the tunnel has not yet been confirmed, though more than 18 people are feared to be stranded.
The incident occurred at the NHPC Teesta Stage VI Hydroelectric Project in Samardung, Jholungey, where the tunnel caved in following a landslide on Monday.
Preliminary reports indicate that a landslide inside the under-construction tunnel blocked the exit, leaving the workers trapped. Rescue efforts have been hampered by a suspected methane gas leak, creating hazardous conditions and making it difficult for emergency teams to safely access the affected area.
Rescue operations are continuing despite difficult conditions. Teams from the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), Fire and Emergency Services, Sikkim Police, and project authorities remain at the site, working to clear debris and search for any remaining victims.
Chief Minister Tamang said Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke with him to review the situation and enquired about the ongoing rescue efforts. The state government is closely monitoring the operation and coordinating with all agencies involved.
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Mary Rose Baba
Mary Rose Baba is a Senior Sub Editor at Webdunia English. She has over 10 years of experience in digital journalism. Earlier in her career, she worked on the Fact Check Desk at Webdunia Hindi, strengthening her expertise in verifying news and combating misinformation. Currently, she leads coverage across current....
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