Sikkim Tunnel Tragedy: Death Toll Rises to Seven as Rescue Teams Continue Search

Gangtok: Rescue teams continued their round-the-clock operation on Tuesday at the under-construction Samardung tunnel of the NHPC Teesta Stage VI Hydroelectric Project in Sikkim's Namchi district, where seven people have been confirmed dead following a devastating landslide.

Officials said the bodies of the victims have been shifted to Singtam District Hospital, STNM Hospital in Gangtok and Namchi District Hospital. Rescue personnel are still searching for workers believed to be trapped inside the tunnel in the Samardung area of Jholungey.

The operation, involving multiple agencies, is being carried out under extremely challenging conditions due to unstable terrain and concerns over hazardous gases inside the tunnel.

The incident occurred on Monday when a landslide struck the under-construction tunnel, reportedly triggering a suspected gas leak and blocking sections of the passage, making rescue efforts difficult.

Earlier, authorities had successfully rescued 16 workers trapped inside the tunnel near Mamring, close to Rangpo. They were taken to the Primary Health Centre (PHC) in Rangpo for medical examination and treatment.

However, fresh official updates on Tuesday confirmed that seven people lost their lives in the tragedy. Authorities have not yet clarified whether the deceased were among the trapped workers or members of the rescue teams.

The rescue mission is being led by the Sikkim Police, Fire and Emergency Services, district administration and other emergency response agencies, with personnel working continuously despite the dangerous conditions.

During Monday's operation, several rescuers from neighbouring West Bengal reportedly experienced dizziness and briefly lost consciousness after suspected exposure to toxic gases while attempting to enter the tunnel. They were evacuated immediately and received medical attention.

The Samardung tunnel is a key component of NHPC's Teesta Stage VI Hydroelectric Project, one of Sikkim's major hydropower developments.

Authorities are expected to launch a detailed investigation into the cause of the accident once rescue operations are completed and the site is declared safe. Construction work at the project is likely to remain suspended until a comprehensive safety review is carried out.

With inputs from IANS