Eight Workers Confirmed Dead in Tunnel Disaster
The death toll in the accident at the under-construction NHPC Teesta Stage VI Hydroelectric Project tunnel in Samardung, Namchi district, has increased to eight, as rescue personnel continue intensive operations inside the collapsed tunnel.
Authorities said multiple agencies remain deployed at the site to locate and recover the remaining trapped workers while ensuring the safety of rescue personnel working under difficult conditions.
Multi-Agency Rescue Mission Continues
A coordinated rescue operation is being carried out by the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), Sikkim Police, Fire and Emergency Services, Health Department, district administration and NHPC officials.
The Sikkim State Disaster Management Authority (SSDMA) is closely supervising the operation, while specialised rescue teams from Pakyong and Siliguri have also joined the mission to strengthen ongoing efforts.
Officials said operations are continuing on a war footing as teams work to recover the remaining workers from inside the tunnel.
PM Narendra Modi Reviews Situation
Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke with Sikkim Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang to review the situation and receive updates on the ongoing rescue operation.
According to the Chief Minister, the Prime Minister expressed deep concern over the tragedy, conveyed his condolences to the affected families and assured the State Government of every possible assistance from the Centre.
Tamang later said the Prime Minister’s concern and assurance had provided strength to the people of Sikkim during the difficult situation.
Chief Minister Monitoring Rescue Efforts
Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang said he is personally monitoring developments and has instructed all concerned departments to accelerate rescue operations while extending every possible assistance to the affected families.
He also appreciated the dedication of rescue personnel, medical teams, police officers and volunteers working continuously under challenging circumstances to complete the operation.
Appeal Against Rumours
The State Government has appealed to the public not to circulate unverified information regarding the incident.
Authorities urged citizens to rely only on official updates while rescue efforts continue and requested people to keep the affected workers and their families in their thoughts during this difficult time.
1. Where did the Sikkim tunnel accident occur?
The accident occurred inside the under-construction NHPC Teesta Stage VI Hydroelectric Project tunnel at Samardung in Namchi district, Sikkim.
2. How many people have died in the tunnel tragedy?
According to the latest official update, the death toll has risen to eight.
3. Which agencies are conducting the rescue operation?
The rescue mission involves the NDRF, SDRF, SSDMA, Sikkim Police, Fire and Emergency Services, district administration, NHPC officials, medical teams and local volunteers.
4. Did Prime Minister Narendra Modi respond to the incident?
Yes. Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke to Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang, reviewed the rescue efforts and assured full assistance from the Central Government.
5. What has the Sikkim Government appealed to the public?
The State Government has urged people not to spread rumours or unverified information and to rely only on official updates.
