Sikkim tunnel collapse: Death toll rises to 20, rescue operations underway to save 5 trapped workers

At least 20 people were killed and five remained trapped after a methane gas explosion triggered a landslide and collapse inside an under-construction NHPC tunnel in Sikkim’s Namchi district. Toxic fumes and low oxygen levels hampered rescue efforts

According to workers, a huge blast-like sound from inside the tunnel after landslide.” Rangpo Fire and Emergency Services personnel pushed inside but retreated after encountering toxic fumes and lethal oxygen levels. Several rescuers fell ill during the attempt. According to preliminary reports, methane gas had accumulated around 1.5 kilometres inside the tunnel. The gas is believed to have naturally come from underground strata or rock formations disturbed by the landslide.

Source - 🔗The New Indian Express

#infrastructure #disaster