A suspected gas-related blast at a hydroelectric tunnel in India’s northeastern state of Sikkim has killed at least 10 workers and leaves more workers feared trapped, authorities said. The incident occurred at the state-owned National Hydroelectric Power Corporation (NHPC) project on the Teesta river in Samardung village, according to a district official. Reports describe a sudden burst of gas in the tunnel, suspected to be methane, which trapped workers either in confined space or within rocks.
Multiple outlets say around 15 workers are feared trapped following the blast. One report cites the number killed as 10, while another states nine deaths, suggesting counts may still be updated as rescue and recovery efforts continue. The blast happens at the NHPC site in the rugged district of Sikkim, prompting an emergency response focused on locating trapped workers inside the tunnel. Authorities continue to investigate the cause, while officials work to access the affected tunnel sections and determine the status of those believed to be inside.
