Seven dead after under-construction tunnel collapses in Sikkim, several trapped; rescue operations are underway

Seven people died when a number of laborers became trapped inside an under-construction tunnel in Samardung, Jholungey, under Namchi district of Sikkim, ANI reported citing authorities.

The bodies of the deceased were taken to Singtam District Hospital, STNM Hospital, Gangtok and Namchi District Hospital, the Public Relations Office said in a statement.

District Collector of Namchi district, Anupa Tamling, said earlier that around 27 workers were trapped inside the tunnel.

“There is a possibility that around 27 workers are trapped inside the tunnel. However, as full information about the condition inside the tunnel is not yet available, the actual number has not been confirmed,” she said.

Tamling also said that a team of the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) has entered the tunnel and is carrying out rescue operations.

She also added that information about the number of workers trapped inside and their current condition will be clear only after the NDRF stack returns.

“It is estimated that 21 workers of contractor Patel Engineering and six of NHPC are stuck in the tunnel. Rescue operations are being carried out by teams of the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), SDRF, district police and Fire Rescue Services. A specialized rescue team from neighboring West Bengal has also joined the operation with gas protective equipment for the rescuers,” she was quoted as saying by PTI.

“The rescue operation is becoming increasingly difficult due to methane exposure, the narrow tunnel and poor visibility,” she added.

Ambulances were kept on standby as rescuers equipped with gas masks and other protective gear continued their efforts to reach the trapped workers, PTI quoted government officials as saying.

The tunnel was being constructed by Patel Engineering as part of NHPC’s ADIT for the Teesta Stage VI hydropower project.

The rescue operation was further complicated by the presence of gas inside the tunnel. Several rescue workers said they felt dizzy and lost consciousness while trying to reach the trapped workers, PTI reported, citing officials.

The gas is thought to arise naturally from underground layers or rock formations distributed by landslides.

This is a developing story. Check back later for updates.