Rescue Ops Underway After Tunnel Collapse In Sikkim

A major disaster occurred in Sikkim’s Namchi district on Monday after a landslide caused the collapse of an under-construction tunnel entrance at the Samardung site. Official estimates suggest that approximately 27 workers from Patel Engineering and the National Hydroelectric Power Corporation (NHPC) remain trapped inside the tunnel. Rescue teams, comprising personnel from the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), state police, and specialized squads from West Bengal, are currently working to clear the debris and locate the missing individuals.

The operation has faced severe setbacks due to a suspected methane gas leak originating from the disturbed underground strata. According to District Collector Anupa Tamling, the accumulation of toxic gas has caused rescuers to feel dizzy and lose consciousness, necessitating the use of advanced gas-protective gear. The narrow configuration of the tunnel, combined with poor visibility and unstable geological conditions, has further hindered the progress of the recovery efforts. Emergency medical units remain on high alert near the site to provide immediate assistance to any rescued workers.

State authorities have prioritized the safety of those still trapped while ensuring that expert rescue teams are adequately supported with necessary equipment. Once the immediate rescue operations conclude, officials have committed to launching a comprehensive investigation into the structural integrity of the project and the circumstances leading to the landslide. This incident has raised critical questions regarding worker safety protocols and disaster mitigation strategies in high-risk mountainous infrastructure projects currently underway in Sikkim.