Punjab Newsline | Gangtok
At least eight workers were killed after a landslide blocked the entrance of an under-construction tunnel in Sikkim's Namchi district on Monday, trapping several labourers inside. Rescue teams are continuing efforts to save the remaining workers amid fears of a methane gas leak inside the tunnel.
The incident occurred at the Samardung tunnel in Mamring, where construction work was underway. According to District Collector Anupa Tamling, around 27 workers are believed to have been inside the tunnel at the time of the collapse, though the exact number is yet to be confirmed. Eight workers have been found dead, while 19 remain trapped.
Rescue operations have been complicated by the suspected presence of methane gas inside the tunnel. Several rescue personnel reportedly experienced dizziness, and some even lost consciousness while attempting to enter, forcing authorities to proceed with extreme caution.
Administration received information about the accident at around 3:40 pm, following which teams from the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), district police and the fire department rushed to the site.
Officials said the trapped workers include 21 employees of Patel Engineering and six workers associated with NHPC. A specialised rescue team equipped with gas-resistant safety gear has also been brought in from West Bengal to assist in the operation.
Ambulances have been stationed at the site, while rescue teams wearing gas masks continue efforts to reach those trapped inside the tunnel, which is being constructed by Patel Engineering for the Teesta Stage-VI Hydroelectric Power Project. Authorities said the rescue operation is ongoing.
