A massive landslide at an under-construction tunnel in Sikkim's Namchi district has claimed the lives of 10 construction workers, while 17 others remain trapped more than 24 hours after the incident. Rescue operations are continuing under challenging conditions as suspected methane gas leaks and heavy debris have significantly slowed efforts to reach those still inside the tunnel.

According to Namchi Superintendent of Police Sonam Dolma, rescue teams recovered 10 bodies by Tuesday, while three victims are yet to be identified. The deceased belonged to West Bengal, Uttarakhand, Assam, and Sikkim. Authorities have not ruled out the possibility that the number of trapped workers could change as rescue operations progress.

PM Modi Announces Ex-Gratia for Victims

Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed grief over the tragedy and announced an ex-gratia of ₹2 lakh from the Prime Minister's National Relief Fund (PMNRF) for the next of kin of each deceased worker. Injured workers will receive ₹50,000 as financial assistance.

The Prime Minister also conveyed condolences to the bereaved families and expressed hope for the safe rescue of those still trapped inside the tunnel.

President Murmu, Amit Shah Express Condolences

President Droupadi Murmu described the incident as deeply tragic and extended her heartfelt condolences to the families of the victims.

In a message posted on X, she said she was deeply saddened by the loss of lives and prayed for the speedy rescue and safe evacuation of the remaining workers, along with the quick recovery of those injured.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah also spoke with Sikkim Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang to review the rescue operations and assured all possible assistance from the Centre.

Methane Gas Leak Hampers Rescue Operations

The landslide struck the Samardung Tunnel in the Mamring area of Namchi district at around 3:40 pm on Monday, causing a massive cave-in and completely blocking the tunnel entrance.

District Collector Anupa Tamling said rescue efforts have become extremely difficult due to the accumulation of debris and the possibility of a methane gas leak inside the tunnel.

Several rescue personnel reportedly experienced dizziness, while some fainted during operations because of poor air quality, forcing authorities to adopt additional safety measures before continuing the rescue mission.

Special Rescue Teams Deployed

The rescue operation involves personnel from the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), district police, and fire services. A specialized rescue team equipped with gas-proof protective equipment has also been brought from West Bengal to strengthen the operation.

Officials believe that the trapped workers include 21 employees of Patel Engineering and six workers associated with NHPC. Ambulances and medical teams remain stationed at the site to provide immediate treatment once survivors are rescued.

Tunnel Part of Major Hydropower Project

The collapsed tunnel was under construction for the Teesta Stage VI Hydroelectric Power Project, being executed by Patel Engineering.

Authorities said the immediate priority remains reaching the trapped workers safely despite hazardous conditions inside the tunnel, including confined spaces, poor visibility, unstable debris, and the suspected presence of methane gas.

Rescue teams continue to work around the clock as hopes remain that those still trapped can be evacuated safely.