A gas explosion in an under-construction tunnel in India's north-eastern Sikkim state has claimed the lives of at least 12 workers. Officials confirmed the fatalities as rescue operations continue in challenging conditions to reach 13 other individuals believed to be trapped since the incident occurred on Monday.
The collapse, which took place approximately 1.5 kilometres inside the tunnel, was attributed to a "sudden burst of suspected methane gas" by the state-owned National Hydroelectric Power Corporation (NHPC), the project's developer. The Sikkim government corroborated this, stating the accident was caused by "methane gas combustion". Methane is a naturally occurring gas that, if released into a confined space and exposed to an ignition source, can lead to explosions or fires.
At the time of the explosion, 27 people were working in various sections of the tunnel. Two managed to escape, leaving 25 trapped. Superintendent of Police Sonam D Bhutia confirmed on Wednesday morning that 12 bodies had been recovered, with teams working tirelessly to locate the remaining 13 men. Seven of the identified victims include one from Sikkim and migrant workers from other Indian states such as West Bengal, Uttarakhand, and Assam.
The tunnel is a crucial component of a larger hydroelectric project in the Himalayan state, designed to channel water from the Teesta River to a power plant's turbines. Rescue efforts are currently concentrated on a specific 200-metre zone where the remaining trapped workers are most likely located, according to NDRF officer Mohsen Shahedi.
In response to the tragedy, Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang has established a special investigation team. The team, comprising experts, will thoroughly examine the circumstances leading to the incident and determine the exact cause, with actions to be taken based on their findings. The UK Foreign Office has not issued any specific travel warnings for Sikkim, but British nationals in the region are always advised to monitor local news and follow advice from local authorities.