Archive · 23 Jul 2026
Sikkim Tunnel Blast Death Toll Rises to 22
There was a big explosion in a tunnel in Sikkim, India, where people were working on a hydroelectric project.
The explosion was likely caused by methane gas.
So far, 22 people have died, and 3 are still missing.
Rescue teams are trying to find the missing people, but it's hard because of mud, water, and bad air in the tunnel.
The company involved, NHPC, is giving money to the families of those who died.
An explosion in a tunnel in Sikkim, India, has killed 22 people and left 3 missing.
The explosion was likely caused by methane gas trapped in or released from rocks.
Rescue operations are ongoing but are hampered by mud, water, and breathing issues.
NHPC has offered 500,000 Indian rupees ($5,178) in ex-gratia relief to the families of the victims.
The incident occurred at an under-construction hydroelectric project on the Teesta river.
- Who
- Workers and officials of NHPC
- What
- Explosion in an under-construction hydroelectric project tunnel
- When
- Monday
- Where
- Samardung, Sikkim
- Why
- Suspected methane gas leak
Rescue Efforts
Challenges Faced
Rescue Operations
Rescue Efforts
Specialized teams are working in close coordination to locate and recover the remaining victims.
Challenges Faced
Rescue efforts are being hampered by mud, water, and breathing issues due to a suspected gas leak.
- Location
- Samardung, Sikkim
- Date of Incident
- Monday
- Number of Victims
- 22 confirmed dead, 3 still trapped
- Cause of Explosion
- Suspected methane gas leak
- Organization Involved
- National Hydroelectric Power Corp Ltd (NHPC)
- Ex-gratia Relief
- 500,000 Indian rupees ($5,178) per family