TNI Bureau: The death toll in the collapse of an under-construction tunnel at the NHPC Teesta Stage VI Hydroelectric Project in Sikkim’s Namchi district has risen to 20, while five workers remain trapped.
The tunnel caved in following a landslide at Samardung in Jholungey. Rescue operations are being carried out by the NDRF, SDRF, district administration, NHPC and other agencies. A specialised team from the Directorate General of Mines Safety has also joined the operation.
Rescue efforts have been hampered by toxic fumes, low oxygen levels and methane gas inside the tunnel. Several rescuers reportedly fell ill during the operation.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke to Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang and assured all possible assistance. The PMO announced an ex gratia of ₹2 lakh for the families of the deceased and ₹50,000 for the injured.
West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari also offered support, saying some of the affected workers may be from Jalpaiguri district. Rescue operations are continuing to locate and save the trapped workers.
