Tunnel collapses in Sikkim’s Namchi; 8 workers killed, rescue ops under way
A landslide caused a tunnel collapse at the NHPC Teesta Stage VI Hydroelectric Project in Sikkim, resulting in the deaths of eight workers. Rescue operations are currently hampered by the presence of toxic gas emanating from the rock formations.
Why it matters
The incident highlights ongoing safety and environmental risks associated with large-scale infrastructure projects in ecologically sensitive mountainous regions.
Sikkim Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang on Tuesday (July 21, 2026) said eight workers were killed after an under-construction tunnel collapsed in Namchi district a day ago.
The tunnel of NHPC Teesta Stage VI Hydroelectric Project at Samardung in Jholungey caved in due to a landslide, he said.
Around 27 workers were trapped inside the under-construction tunnel after a landslide blocked its entrance and triggered a suspected gas leak on Monday afternoon, officials had said.
The rescue operation has been complicated by the presence of gas inside the tunnel, with several personnel experiencing dizziness and losing consciousness while attempting to reach the trapped workers, they said.
Rescue personnel conduct a rescue operation after about 27 workers are trapped inside an under-construction tunnel after a landslide blocked its entrance and triggered a suspected gas leak, in Namchi district | Photo Credit: PTI
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