Archive · 23 Jul 2026
Sikkim Tunnel Collapse: Death Toll Rises to 22
A tunnel in Sikkim collapsed on Monday afternoon, and the death toll has risen to 22.
The collapse was caused by a suspected methane gas explosion.
Rescue teams, including NDRF, SDRF, and local police, are working to recover the remaining victims.
The Chief Minister has promised a thorough inquiry and strict action if negligence is found.
The death toll at the collapsed tunnel in Sikkim's Namchi district has risen to 22.
Rescue operations resumed on Wednesday night with additional teams joining from Eastern Coalfields Limited (ECL).
The collapse was caused by a suspected methane gas explosion inside the under-construction Head Race Tunnel (HRT).
At least 27 workers were trapped inside the tunnel at the time of the incident.
Rescue operations have been hampered by the accumulation of mud, water, and toxic gases inside the tunnel.
- Who
- Workers of Patel Engineering and NHPC staffers
- What
- Tunnel collapse due to a suspected methane gas explosion
- When
- Monday afternoon
- Where
- Namchi district, Sikkim
- Why
- The cause is believed to be a sudden burst of suspected methane gas trapped within rock formations.
Government and Rescue Teams
Contractor and NHPC Staff
Responsibility for the Incident
Government and Rescue Teams
The government and rescue teams are focusing on the rescue operations and ensuring the safety of the workers.
Contractor and NHPC Staff
The contractor and NHPC staff are likely to be held accountable if negligence is found in the incident.
- Location
- Namchi district, Sikkim
- Date of Incident
- Monday afternoon
- Cause of Collapse
- Suspected methane gas explosion
- Number of Workers Trapped
- 27
- Number of Bodies Recovered
- 22
- Rescue Teams Involved
- NDRF, SDRF, district police, Fire and Emergency Services, Eastern Coalfields Limited (ECL)
- Chief Minister's Statement
- A thorough inquiry will be conducted, and strict action will be taken if negligence is found.