At least nine workers were killed and 15 others remain trapped after a tunnel collapsed at an under-construction hydropower project in India’s northeastern state of Sikkim, officials said on Tuesday.
The collapse occurred on Monday during construction of a tunnel for a state-run hydroelectric project on the Teesta River.
How many people were inside the tunnel?
According to the Sikkim State Disaster Management Authority, an estimated 25 to 27 workers were inside the tunnel when it collapsed.
Authorities have so far recovered nine bodies, while rescue teams continue efforts to reach those still trapped.
What caused the collapse?
Officials said the collapse was likely triggered by a blast deep inside the tunnel, although the exact cause has not yet been determined.
The region has experienced heavy monsoon rainfall in recent days, and authorities said the incident was most likely caused by natural factors.
How are rescue operations progressing?
Rescue efforts have been complicated by the presence of toxic methane gas inside the tunnel, limiting access to teams equipped with oxygen gear.
Authorities said specialised rescue personnel trained in mining accidents have been deployed to support the ongoing operation.
Why is the incident significant?
Construction accidents at major infrastructure projects remain a recurring challenge in India, particularly in the ecologically sensitive Himalayan region.
Environmental experts have previously warned that expanding infrastructure development in fragile mountain areas increases the risk of landslides, tunnel failures and other disasters.
What happens next?
Search and rescue operations remain underway as emergency teams work to locate the remaining trapped workers.
Authorities are also investigating the cause of the collapse while monitoring safety conditions inside the tunnel.