Methane blast kills 10, traps 15 in Sikkim tunnel

A suspected methane gas explosion and subsequent tunnel collapse at a hydroelectric project in India's northeastern state of Sikkim has killed at least ten workers, with fifteen others feared trapped as rescue operations continue for a second day. The incident occurred on Monday, July 20, 2026, at the state-owned National Hydroelectric Power Corporation's Teesta Stage VI project near the village of Samardung in Namchi district.

Authorities reported that 25 workers and officials were inside the tunnel at the time of the blast. The explosion, believed to have been caused by a sudden release of methane gas trapped in rock, triggered a landslide that sealed a portion of the tunnel and filled the area with dense, toxic fumes. Ten bodies have been recovered so far. Rescue efforts have been severely hampered by high concentrations of methane and carbon monoxide, low oxygen levels, and poor visibility, forcing teams equipped with specialized breathing apparatus to lead the operation.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke with Sikkim Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang to review the situation and assured the state of all possible federal assistance. In a statement, the Chief Minister expressed...