13 bodies recovered in Sikkim tunnel collapse: NHPC

Guwahati: NHPC Limited stated that of the 25 personnel trapped inside the tunnel, 13 bodies have been retrieved so far.

The company stated rescue operations at the under-construction Head Race Tunnel (HRT) of NHPC's Teesta Stage-VI Hydroelectric Project in South Sikkim are continuing round-the-clock, with close coordination among the District Administration, NDRF, SDRF, NHPC, Patel Engineering Limited(PEL), Eastern Coalfields Limited, Western Coalfields Limited, local authorities and other agencies involved in the response.

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NHPC added, “Of the 25 personnel trapped inside the tunnel, 13 bodies have been retrieved so far. Every possible effort continues to be made to locate and evacuate the remaining personnel at the earliest. NHPC's Top Management is present at the site, closely monitoring and coordinating the rescue operations with all agencies involved. NHPC will provide an ex-gratia payment of Rs. 5 lakhs to the next of kin of each deceased in this unfortunate incident.

NHPC expressed its profound grief over the tragic loss of lives and extended its deepest condolences to the bereaved families in this hour of grief.

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On July 20 inside the under-construction Head Race Tunnel of NHPC Teesta Stage-VI Hydroelectric Project, Samardung, South Sikkim, after a sudden burst of suspected methane gas trapped within the rocks led to an explosion, generating dense fumes and toxic gases.