Sikkim Tunnel Collapse Leaves 13 Dead as Recovery Mission Continues

Gangtok: Thirteen bodies were recovered from the Teesta Stage-VI Hydroelectric Project in Sikkim after a tunnel collapse on Monday. The disaster trapped 25 personnel inside the 7-km structure near Samardung during a routine inspection. Workers from the National Hydroelectric Power Corporation and Patel Engineering were among those caught underground.

Recovery efforts stalled Tuesday as heavy rain and thick mud choked the Head Race Tunnel. Rising water levels forced crews to pause, but operations resumed early Wednesday. High-capacity pumps now fight to drain the tunnel. Rescue teams include the NDRF, SDRF, Sikkim Police, the Asansol Mines Rescue Team, and staff from Eastern and Western Coalfields Limited.

Toxic gas leaks and unstable terrain hinder the work. Multiple rescuers sustained injuries in the dangerous conditions. Medical teams and ambulances stand ready at Rangpo PHC to move patients to Rangpo Hospital if necessary. NHPC management remains on-site to oversee the recovery.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke with Sikkim Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang. The central government promised full support to the state. The PMO announced an ex-gratia payment of Rs 2 lakh for each victim and Rs 50,000 for the injured from the PMNRF. Patel Engineering and NHPC also confirmed an additional ex-gratia of Rs 5 lakh for each deceased worker's family.

In a statement regarding the tragedy, the company said, "NHPC expresses its profound grief over the tragic loss of lives and extends its deepest condolences to the bereaved families in this hour of grief." Teams continue their work to find the 12 workers still missing inside the mountain.