Ten killed after tunnel collapse at hydroelectric project in India

At least 10 people were killed, and several others remained trapped after a tunnel under construction for the Teesta State VI hydroelectric project collapsed in India’s Sikkim state, officials said.

The incident occurred on July 20 in Namchi district after a reported methane gas explosion triggered a landslide that blocked the tunnel exit, Caliber.Az reports per Indian media.

Officials said the explosion occurred during efforts to release methane gas that had accumulated in a section of the tunnel. About 25 workers, including officials, were reportedly trapped inside.

Search-and-rescue operations were continuing, with teams from multiple agencies, including the National Disaster Response Force, state authorities, police, fire services and medical teams, working to rescue survivors and recover bodies.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke with Sikkim Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang on July 21 and assured the state government of all possible assistance from the central government.

By Sabina Mammadli