The death toll from the tunnel collapse in Namchi district, Sikkim, has now reached eleven. The incident occurred during the afternoon of July 20, when a section of the under-construction tunnel for the NHPC Teesta Stage-VI Hydroelectric Project experienced a catastrophic failure. Rescue teams are actively working to reach the remaining workers who are allegedly trapped inside.

As of today, the state authorities have successfully recovered another body from the site. Reports indicate that around 27 workers were on-site during the collapse, with two individuals managing to escape immediately after the incident. Despite the challenges faced, efforts are underway to ensure no one else is left trapped.

Sikkim’s Chief Minister, Prem Singh Tamang, has been present at the site and confirmed that all necessary rescue operations were initiated promptly. Various agencies, including local police and the National and State Disaster Response Forces, were mobilised to assist in the operations. The administration is coordinating closely with these agencies to ensure an effective and thorough rescue mission.

Government to Provide Compensation and Conduct Inquiry

During his visit to the site, Chief Minister Tamang announced that the state government would offer compensation of Rs 4 lakh to the families of those who have died and Rs 50,000 to the injured. He emphasised the commitment of the state to provide support to the victims’ families in this difficult time.

Tamang also stated that a comprehensive inquiry would be undertaken to investigate the reasons behind the accident, assuring the public that strict action would be taken should any negligence from the executing company be identified. His remarks highlighted the seriousness with which the government views workplace safety and accountability.

According to the NHPC, the tunnel allegedly collapsed due to a sudden burst of methane gas trapped within the rock formations, which resulted in an explosion. This explosion filled the tunnel with dense fumes and toxic gases, complicating the rescue efforts and presenting significant risks to the safety of the rescuers and trapped workers alike.

Local and National Response to the Tragedy

In light of this tragic incident, emergency response protocols were swiftly activated, and a joint rescue operation was launched involving district administration officials, the NDRF, SDRF, local authorities, and a specialised team from the Directorate General of Mines Safety. This coordinated effort underscores the urgency and significance of the situation at hand.

Senior officials from NHPC were also dispatched to the location to oversee the rescue operations and ensure that all necessary resources were being allocated to assist in the recovery efforts. Their presence aims to reinforce the commitment to resolving the ongoing crisis and supporting the affected individuals.

As rescue teams continue their work at the site, the government remains focused on ensuring the safety of both rescue personnel and any potentially trapped individuals. Authorities are constantly assessing the situation to navigate the complexities involved in the aftermath of such a disaster.

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