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NHPC’s 2024 Report Reveals Gas Fires in Teesta‑VI Tunnels Before Fatal Blast
✍️ The Hindu
🗓 23 Jul 2026, 05:49 PM
👁 3
NHPC’s internal 2024 paper documented gas fires in the Teesta‑VI tunnels prior to a fatal blast, raising concerns over safety protocols at the hydroelectric project.
NHPC’s own 2024 safety audit highlighted the presence of gas fires in the Teesta‑VI tunnels, located on the river’s western bank in West Bengal. The report, released by the company’s risk management division, noted several incidents of methane accumulation that were recorded weeks before a fatal explosion.
The blast, which occurred in early March, caused significant damage to the tunnel infrastructure and resulted in multiple casualties among workers. Investigators are now examining whether the recorded gas fires were adequately addressed or if safety protocols were breached.
Industry analysts say the incident underscores the need for stricter monitoring of gas levels in underground hydroelectric facilities. NHPC has pledged to review its emergency response procedures and to implement additional gas detection systems.
The West Bengal government has ordered an independent inquiry, and the Central Pollution Control Board has been asked to assess environmental impacts. NHPC’s chief executive has called for a comprehensive safety audit across all its projects.
The blast, which occurred in early March, caused significant damage to the tunnel infrastructure and resulted in multiple casualties among workers. Investigators are now examining whether the recorded gas fires were adequately addressed or if safety protocols were breached.
Industry analysts say the incident underscores the need for stricter monitoring of gas levels in underground hydroelectric facilities. NHPC has pledged to review its emergency response procedures and to implement additional gas detection systems.
The West Bengal government has ordered an independent inquiry, and the Central Pollution Control Board has been asked to assess environmental impacts. NHPC’s chief executive has called for a comprehensive safety audit across all its projects.