NEW DELHI: A major industrial disaster unfolded in Sikkim’s Namchi district after a suspected methane gas explosion inside an under-construction tunnel triggered a landslide, leaving at least nine workers dead and 16 others trapped. The incident occurred at the Samardung tunnel, part of the National Hydroelectric Power Corporation’s (NHPC) Teesta Stage-VI Hydroelectric Project, prompting a massive multi-agency rescue operation.
Explosion Triggers Deadly Landslide
According to officials, the accident took place when methane gas that had accumulated deep inside the tunnel was being vented. The gas is believed to have naturally seeped from underground rock formations over a stretch of nearly 1.5 kilometres. During the venting process, the gas reportedly exploded, triggering a powerful landslide that blocked the tunnel entrance and trapped workers inside.
The district administration said 25 workers, including NHPC personnel and construction workers, were inside the tunnel when the explosion occurred. While some managed to escape immediately after the blast, many remained trapped behind debris.
Death Toll Rises as Rescue Continues
Authorities have confirmed that nine workers lost their lives in the tragedy. Rescue teams have managed to evacuate several workers, but at least 16 people are still believed to be trapped inside the collapsed tunnel.
Officials cautioned that the number of trapped workers could change as verification of attendance records and contractor details continues. The operation has entered a critical phase as rescuers work against time to locate survivors.
Challenging Conditions Hamper Rescue Efforts
The rescue mission has been severely complicated by hazardous methane gas, depleted oxygen levels, poor visibility and the narrow tunnel passage. Rescue personnel entering the tunnel have reportedly faced breathing difficulties due to the presence of toxic gases.
Teams from the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), Sikkim Police, Fire and Emergency Services, district administration and medical teams have been deployed at the site. Specialised equipment is being used to monitor gas levels before rescue workers move further into the tunnel.
Officials said every step is being taken cautiously to prevent further explosions or tunnel collapses that could endanger both trapped workers and rescue personnel.
Massive Multi-Agency Response
The district administration received information about the incident shortly after it occurred, following which emergency response teams rushed to the project site.
Heavy machinery has been deployed to remove debris blocking the tunnel entrance, while engineers are simultaneously assessing the structural stability of the tunnel. Ambulances and medical teams remain stationed outside the site to provide immediate treatment to rescued workers.
Authorities said rescue operations are continuing round the clock despite extremely difficult conditions.
Methane Gas a Major Concern
Experts involved in the rescue operation believe methane gas naturally released from underground rock formations accumulated inside the tunnel over time. Such gas can become highly explosive when concentrated in confined spaces.
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Officials suspect that an attempt to release the trapped methane triggered the blast, leading to the collapse that sealed off parts of the tunnel. The presence of residual gas continues to pose a serious threat to rescuers, making ventilation and gas monitoring a top priority before advancing further inside.
Families Await News
Outside the tunnel site, anxious family members gathered hoping for updates about their loved ones. Authorities have established communication centres to keep relatives informed as rescue efforts continue.
Medical teams and counsellors are also assisting families while local officials coordinate relief arrangements.
The state administration has assured that every available resource is being utilised to rescue those still trapped inside.
Investigation Likely After Rescue
Officials said the immediate priority remains saving lives. Once rescue operations are completed, a detailed investigation is expected to determine the exact cause of the explosion, assess compliance with tunnel safety protocols and identify whether additional preventive measures should have been in place.
Questions regarding methane monitoring systems, ventilation mechanisms and emergency preparedness are likely to be examined during the inquiry.
Rescue Operation Remains Underway
As rescue teams battle hazardous underground conditions, hopes remain that more workers can be brought out safely. Authorities have appealed for patience, stating that operations are progressing cautiously to avoid further risks.
The Sikkim tunnel tragedy has once again highlighted the dangers associated with large-scale infrastructure projects in difficult mountainous terrain, where geological conditions and underground gas accumulation can quickly turn construction sites into disaster zones. Rescue agencies continue to work tirelessly as the nation watches for positive news from the operation.
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