The accident occurred at the ADIT-3 tunnel of the NHPC Teesta Stage VI Hydropower Project at Samardung, Jholungey. A total of 25 workers and officials were trapped inside the tunnel structure.
Joint rescue operations are being conducted on a war-footing by the National Disaster Response Force, State Disaster Response Force, state authorities, and local teams. Specialized response units from Pakyong and Siliguri have also joined the rescue efforts. Civil contractor Patel Engineering Ltd stated that its site team is providing resources, equipment, and round-the-clock support to stabilize the tunnel.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke with Sikkim Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang to review the ongoing rescue operations. The Prime Minister expressed concern for the affected families and assured full assistance from the Central Government.
Chief Minister Tamang offered his condolences to the bereaved families and directed state agencies to expedite rescue operations while maintaining safety standards. He also appealed to the public to avoid spreading unverified information regarding the incident.
In Brief
• Twelve workers died following a landslide at an under-construction tunnel in Sikkim.
• Thirteen workers remain trapped inside the NHPC Teesta Stage VI project tunnel.
• Multi-agency rescue teams are conducting operations on a war-footing at the site.
• Prime Minister Narendra Modi assured full central government assistance for rescue efforts.
