The death toll in the Sikkim tunnel disaster has climbed to 20 as rescue teams continue battling extremely difficult conditions inside the under-construction tunnel. Authorities believe more victims may still be trapped beneath debris, mud, and water, making the operation increasingly complex.
The accident occurred at the Teesta Hydroelectric Project in Namchi district, where an explosion inside the tunnel reportedly triggered a collapse. Preliminary investigations suggest that a methane gas leak may have caused the blast, sealing the tunnel entrance and trapping dozens of workers.
Rescue personnel from the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) are working with oxygen equipment due to the presence of hazardous methane gas inside the tunnel. Officials said several rescuers experienced breathing difficulties during the operation and required medical attention after exposure to the toxic environment.
According to officials, eleven of the confirmed victims are workers from West Bengal, most of them from Jalpaiguri district. Authorities fear that additional workers from the state could still be trapped inside the collapsed tunnel.
West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has directed two state legislators to visit the accident site and monitor the situation. She also said she has been in touch with Sikkim Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang regarding rescue efforts and assistance for affected families.
The Sikkim government has announced compensation of ₹4 lakh for the families of those who lost their lives and ₹50,000 for the injured. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has also announced ₹2 lakh in ex gratia assistance for the families of the deceased and ₹50,000 for those injured as rescue operations continue around the clock.
