Landslide in Sikkim causes a deadly tunnel collapse in Namchi district, leaving workers trapped as rescue teams continue operations at the site.

Landslide in Sikkim Tragedy Leaves Workers Trapped After Tunnel Collapse

A landslide in Sikkim has caused a major tragedy after an under-construction tunnel collapsed at Samardung, Jholungey, in Namchi district, leaving several workers trapped and claiming multiple lives. The incident occurred on Monday night at the NHPC Teesta Stage VI Hydropower Project following a landslide that caused the collapse of the tunnel structure.

According to updates from the Namchi district administration, rescue teams recovered 10 bodies while efforts continued to locate workers still trapped inside the tunnel. Officials reported that around 25 people, including project workers and officials, were present inside the ADIT-3 tunnel when the collapse occurred.

Rescue Teams Race against Time to Save Trapped Workers

Multiple agencies have joined the rescue operation, including the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), Sikkim State Disaster Management Authority, district administration teams, police personnel, fire services, medical teams, and local volunteers.

Specialized teams from Pakyong and Siliguri have also been deployed to support the ongoing operation. Authorities are working continuously to stabilize the affected area and create safe access routes for rescue teams.

Companies and Authorities Extend Support

Patel Engineering Ltd, which is involved in the civil construction work of the tunnel, said its team is working closely with disaster response agencies and local authorities. The company confirmed that necessary resources, equipment, and technical support are being provided to assist rescue operations.

Government Reviews Rescue Efforts

Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke with Sikkim Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang to review the situation. In a post on X, he shared “Anguished by the loss of lives due to the collapse of an under-construction tunnel in Namchi, Sikkim. I extend my deepest condolences to the bereaved families. I pray that those injured recover at the earliest. An ex-gratia of Rs.2 lakh from PMNRF would be given to the next of kin of each deceased. The injured would be given Rs.50, 000.”

The Chief Minister expressed condolences to the families affected and directed authorities to speed up rescue efforts while maintaining safety standards. The government also urged people to remain calm and avoid spreading unverified information during the rescue operation.

Business Fortune highlights the importance of stronger safety protocols and emergency preparedness for construction projects in vulnerable regions.

 

FAQs

What happened in the landslide in Sikkim?
A landslide in Sikkim caused an under-construction tunnel collapse at the NHPC Teesta Stage VI Hydropower Project in Namchi district, trapping several workers and leading to multiple fatalities.

Where did the Sikkim tunnel landslide occur?
The Sikkim tunnel landslide occurred at Samardung, Jholungey, in Sikkim’s Namchi district, at an under-construction tunnel linked to the Teesta Stage VI Hydropower Project.

How many workers were trapped after the tunnel collapse in Sikkim?
Around 25 people, including workers and project officials, were reported to be inside the ADIT-3 tunnel when the collapse occurred.

Which agencies are involved in the rescue operation?
The National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), Sikkim State Disaster Management Authority, police, fire services, medical teams, and local volunteers were involved in the rescued operation.

What caused the tunnel collapse in Sikkim?
The tunnel collapse was caused by a landslide in the Namchi district, affecting the under-construction tunnel at the hydropower project site.