In Sikkim, search and rescue operations are underway to safely evacuate people trapped inside the under-construction tunnel of the NHPC Teesta Stage VI Hydroelectric Project at Samardung in Namchi district.
The Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) of Namchi district informed that eight bodies have been recovered by the rescue teams so far. It is suspected that at least 25 people are trapped inside the tunnel, which collapsed, likely due to landslides. The bodies have been taken to Singtam District Hospital, STNM Hospital in Gangtok and Namchi District Hospital.
The Namchi district administration, in coordination with NHPC officials, the SDRF, NDRF, Sikkim Police, Fire and Emergency Services, the Health Department and other line departments, is continuously carrying out the rescue operation.
The incident occurred yesterday at the NHPC project in Samardung, South Sikkim. The NDRF, SDRF and other agencies were immediately pressed into the rescue mission. However, due to a gas leak, rescue teams were initially unable to reach the site.
Coordinated efforts by the rescue teams have so far led to the recovery of eight bodies. The rescue teams are making every effort to safely rescue those trapped, including labourers, NHPC officials and employees of a private engineering firm.
