Tunnel collapse: Bengal CM speaks to Sikkim counterpart, offers assistance

Tunnel Collapse in Sikkim: West Bengal Chief Minister Offers Support

Tunnel collapse – West Bengal’s Chief Minister, Suvendu Adhikari, contacted Sikkim’s counterpart, Prem Singh Tamang, on Tuesday after a tunnel collapse in Namchi district claimed the lives of at least 10 individuals. Adhikari emphasized that the state government is actively coordinating to provide aid amid the disaster.

Monitoring Potential District Involvement

Adhikari noted that the West Bengal administration is closely tracking the incident, as some of the affected workers may hail from Jalpaiguri district. “The tragic collapse at the NHPC Teesta Stage VI Hydroelectric Project’s under-construction tunnel in Samardung, Jholungey, has left us deeply distressed,” he stated in a social media update.

“I have spoken with the Chief Minister of Sikkim, Shri Prem Singh Tamang Ji, via phone to assess the situation. Our focus remains on ensuring prompt assistance, given the likelihood that a portion of the workers involved are from our Jalpaiguri district,” Adhikari added.

On-Site Coordination and Rescue Challenges

Minister Bishal Lama and the Darjeeling district magistrate are traveling to the accident site to oversee immediate aid and coordination. The Home Secretary is also maintaining regular communication with Sikkim authorities for real-time updates on rescue operations.

“I have assured the Hon’ble Sikkim Chief Minister of full cooperation and support from West Bengal’s government during this challenging time,” Adhikari said.

Details of the Incident

According to police, the tunnel collapse in Namchi district occurred on Monday due to a landslide. A district official mentioned that the death toll might rise as search and rescue teams continue their efforts.

“Tamang confirmed that the ADIT-3 tunnel at the NHPC Teesta Stage VI Hydroelectric Project in Samardung caved in following the landslide. Twenty-five people, including officials and laborers, were trapped at the time of the incident,” the Sikkim CM shared.

Officials highlighted that the rescue operation was hindered by gas buildup within the tunnel. The gas, believed to originate from underground rock formations disturbed by the landslide, caused several responders to experience dizziness and fainting during the mission.

Condolences and Prayers

Adhikari expressed solidarity with the victims’ families and wished for the quick recovery of the injured. “My thoughts are with the families of the deceased. I pray for the rapid recovery of those hurt and the safe retrieval of all trapped individuals,” he concluded.