India tunnel collapse kills nine, traps 15

At least nine workers were killed and 15 others are believed to be trapped after a tunnel collapsed at an under-construction hydroelectric project

NEW DELHI: At least nine workers were killed and 15 others are believed to be trapped after a tunnel collapsed at an under-construction hydroelectric project in India’s northeastern state of Sikkim. Rescue teams continued searching for survivors on Tuesday despite dangerous conditions inside the tunnel.

The collapse occurred on Monday during construction work on a state-owned hydropower project on the Teesta River. Officials said an estimated 25 to 27 workers were inside the tunnel when the incident took place.

Emergency responders reached the site soon after the collapse and launched a large-scale rescue operation. So far, nine bodies have been recovered from the debris. Rescue workers are continuing efforts to reach those still trapped beneath the collapsed section of the tunnel.

Authorities said the rescue operation has become extremely challenging because of toxic methane gas inside the tunnel. The gas has created a hazardous environment, forcing rescue personnel to enter only with oxygen equipment and protective gear. Officials said the dangerous conditions have slowed progress but have not stopped rescue efforts.

A specialised rescue team with experience in underground and mining accidents has also been deployed to assist local emergency services. Heavy machinery and technical equipment are being used to clear debris and create safe access routes for rescue workers.

Officials believe the collapse may have been triggered by an underground blast, although the exact cause has not yet been confirmed. Investigators are examining whether the blast resulted from natural geological conditions or another factor. Authorities said recent heavy monsoon rains in the Himalayan region may have weakened the ground and contributed to the incident.

Sikkim is located in a mountainous region that is highly vulnerable to landslides, floods and geological instability, particularly during the annual monsoon season. Experts have repeatedly warned that major infrastructure projects in the fragile Himalayan environment face increased risks due to unstable terrain and extreme weather.

The latest tragedy has once again raised concerns about worker safety at large construction projects in India. Industrial and infrastructure accidents continue to occur despite improvements in safety regulations, prompting calls for stricter monitoring and enforcement of safety standards.

The incident has also revived memories of a major tunnel collapse in Uttarakhand in 2023, when 41 workers were trapped inside a road tunnel for 17 days before being rescued in a complex operation that attracted international attention.