Tragedy struck the NHPC Teesta Stage VI Hydroelectric Project in Samardung, Namchi district, after a subterranean explosion of suspected methane gas led to the collapse of an under-construction Head Race Tunnel (HRT). At least 20 workers have been confirmed dead, while specialised teams continue high-risk rescue operations inside the toxic-gas-filled cavern.Details of the Samardung Tunnel IncidentThe incident occurred at approximately 1:00 PM on Monday as trapped geological gases inside rock formations unexpectedly ignited during excavation work:Explosion & Fumes: Sudden release of embedded methane gas caused an immediate blast, filling the confined space with dense smoke and toxic carbon monoxide fumes.Trapped Personnel: A total of 25 workers and project officers were caught inside the collapsing structure.Casualty Status: Local authorities and Namchi police confirmed 20 fatalities, with 12 bodies recovered from the debris so far.Incident Profile: NHPC Teesta Stage VI Tunnel Collapse Project Site : Samardung (Head Race Tunnel ADIT-3), Namchi District, Sikkim. Primary Cause : Subterranean methane gas release and rockburst explosion. Casualties : 20 Deceased | 5 Trapped/Rescued | Multiple Injured Rescue Agencies : NDRF, SDRF, DGMS, West Bengal Specialised Mining Rescue Team Multi-Agency Rescue Operations & Ex-Gratia ReliefRescue operations face severe hazards due to restricted oxygen, waterlogging, and continuous gas leakage inside the tunnel shaft. A specialised mining rescue team from neighbouring West Bengal has joined the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), and Directorate General of Mines Safety (DGMS) to stabilise the site.Financial Assistance & Compensation Relief Central Govt (PMNRF) : ₹2,00,000 for Deceased Next of Kin | ₹50,000 for Injured State Govt (Sikkim) : ₹4,00,000 for Deceased Next of Kin | ₹50,000 for Injured Sikkim Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang, alongside Governor Om Prakash Mathur, inspected the accident site and announced the formation of a high-level inquiry committee to investigate structural safety and environmental compliance protocols at the site. Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke with state officials to review the ongoing operations, assuring full logistical support from central agencies.
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