Sikkim tunnel blast: 10 dead among 25 rescued after suspected methane leak at hydroelectric project

At least 10 people died after a suspected methane gas explosion inside the under-construction Head Race Tunnel at Samardung, part of the Teesta-VI Hydroelectric Project in Sikkim’s Namchi district. Sikkim Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang said 25 personnel were trapped inside the tunnel. Rescue operations were carried out with the support of the NDRF, SDRF and local authorities. Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced ex gratia from the PMNRF, while the Sikkim government also announced compensation for the deceased and injured. NHPC has ordered an investigation into the incident.