Ten workers have died following an incident inside an under-construction tunnel at NHPC’s Teesta Stage VI Hydroelectric Project at Samardung, Jholungey, in India’s Sikkim state, according to the latest update from project developer NHPC.
NHPC said the incident occurred at 1:04pm on July 20 when a suspected methane gas pocket trapped within the surrounding rock exploded inside the Head Race Tunnel (HRT), resulting in dense smoke and toxic gases.
According to the company, 25 personnel were trapped inside the tunnel. As of its latest update, 10 fatalities had been confirmed, while rescue operations remain ongoing to evacuate the remaining stranded workers.
Earlier updates from the Namchi District Administration had reported nine fatalities and said search and rescue operations were continuing at the site.
The project team said it immediately implemented emergency response procedures and is working with the Namchi District Administration, the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), local authorities and other emergency agencies. A specialist rescue team from the Directorate General of Mines Safety (DGMS) has also been deployed.
NHPC said its engineering teams are working around the clock with rescue agencies to stabilise conditions inside the tunnel and support rescue operations. The company’s senior management has travelled to the site to coordinate with local authorities and emergency responders.
Sikkim Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang-Golay said he was “deeply saddened” by the incident.
“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.
The Chief Minister said he was closely monitoring the rescue operation and had directed all concerned authorities to provide every possible assistance, expedite rescue efforts and ensure that the highest standards of safety were maintained throughout the operation.
NHPC said a detailed investigation would be conducted to determine the cause of the incident and that it would continue to provide full support to the rescue agencies and the affected families.
