Gangtok, July 21: State-run hydropower company NHPC on Tuesday issued its first official statement on the tunnel tragedy at its under-construction Teesta Stage VI Hydroelectric Project in Sikkim, saying its top management has reached the site and is closely coordinating rescue operations with emergency agencies, including the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF).
According to NHPC, the incident occurred at 1:04 pm on Monday inside the Head Race Tunnel (HRT) at Samardung in Jholungey, Namchi district, South Sikkim, after a suspected burst of methane gas trapped inside rock formations triggered an explosion, generating dense fumes and toxic gases inside the tunnel.
The company said 25 personnel were trapped, of whom 10 have died.
NHPC said it activated its emergency response protocols immediately after the incident.
Rescue operations are being carried out on a war footing in coordination with the NDRF, State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), Sikkim State Disaster Management Authority (SSDMA), district administration, Sikkim Police, Fire and Emergency Services, the Directorate General of Mines Safety (DGMS), local authorities, medical teams, local volunteers and specialised rescue units.
It added that its engineering teams are working round the clock alongside the authorities to stabilise the tunnel environment and support the rescue operation. NHPC said all possible efforts are being made to evacuate the trapped personnel.
Meanwhile, Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke with Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang to enquire about the situation and review the ongoing rescue operations.
During the conversation, the Prime Minister expressed deep concern and compassion for the affected workers and their families and assured the State Government of every possible assistance from the Centre to support the rescue efforts and provide relief to those impacted by the tragedy. The Chief Minister thanked the Prime Minister for his timely intervention, unwavering support and solidarity with the people of Sikkim, saying the assurance had brought immense strength and reassurance to the state as rescue operations continue.
The Chief Minister said he is closely monitoring the rescue operation and has directed all departments and agencies to expedite rescue efforts, extend every possible assistance to the affected families and maintain the highest standards of safety throughout the operation.
He also acknowledged the dedication, courage and professionalism of the rescue personnel and technical teams working under difficult conditions, expressed condolences to the families of those who lost their lives and appealed to the public to refrain from spreading unverified information and to keep the affected workers and their families in their prayers.
NHPC said a detailed investigation will be undertaken to ascertain the exact cause of the incident.
The company reaffirmed its commitment to extending full support to the rescue agencies and the affected families, while expressing condolences to the families of those who lost their loved ones.
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