Sikkim tunnel tragedy: Death toll rises to 10; SIT formed, CM announces Rs 4 lakh ex gratia

Sikkim Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang has announced the constitution of a Special Investigation Team (SIT) to probe the methane gas explosion and subsequent tunnel collapse at the NHPC Teesta Stage-VI hydropower project, even as rescue and recovery operations continue at the site.

The Chief Minister also announced an ex gratia of Rs 4 lakh for the next of kin of each deceased worker and Rs 50,000 for those injured in the incident.

The disaster struck around midday on Sunday when a methane gas explosion reportedly occurred during excavation work inside the under-construction tunnel. The blast triggered a landslide deep inside the tunnel, trapping several workers underground.

According to the latest official update, 10 bodies have been recovered from the tunnel. Rescue teams continue efforts to locate and recover the remaining trapped workers, while authorities are yet to confirm the final casualty figure.

To ascertain the exact cause of the explosion, a special chemical analysis team has reached the site and joined the investigation. The experts will examine the circumstances surrounding the methane gas build-up and the subsequent blast.

Rescue operations have been severely hampered by hazardous conditions inside the tunnel. Personnel from the Rangpo Fire and Emergency Services, who were the first to respond, were forced to withdraw after encountering dangerously low oxygen levels and toxic fumes, with some rescuers reportedly falling ill during the operation.

Subsequent rescue attempts by the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) also faced major challenges due to poor air quality, unstable tunnel conditions and debris caused by the landslide.

With the recovery of 10 bodies, the government's focus has shifted to both completing the search and recovery operation and determining the precise sequence of events that led to the tragedy.

Senior officials, including the District Collector, remain stationed at the site to oversee rescue efforts and coordinate the ongoing operation.

The SIT is expected to examine all aspects of the incident, including safety protocols, gas monitoring systems, excavation procedures and compliance with operational standards at the tunnel project. Authorities said the findings of the investigation will help determine accountability and recommend measures to prevent similar incidents in the future.