📷 Image: Wikimedia Commons / रोहित साव27
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Ten Killed in Methane Gas Explosion at NHPC Tunnel, Sikkim
✍️ The Hindu
🗓 21 Jul 2026, 07:04 PM
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A methane gas explosion in an NHPC tunnel in Namchi district, Sikkim, has killed ten people. Rescue teams are currently conducting operations to locate survivors.
A sudden methane gas explosion in an NHPC tunnel near Namchi town on Monday night resulted in the deaths of ten workers. The blast occurred in a tunnel that is part of the hydroelectric project operated by the National Hydroelectric Power Corporation. Initial reports indicate that the explosion was triggered by a sudden release of accumulated gas.
Emergency services responded within minutes, deploying rescue teams and heavy equipment to the site. Search and rescue operations are ongoing, with authorities working to locate any survivors and assess the structural damage to the tunnel.
The incident has raised concerns about safety protocols in underground construction sites. NHPC officials have pledged a full investigation into the cause of the gas build‑up and will cooperate with local authorities to prevent future accidents.
Emergency services responded within minutes, deploying rescue teams and heavy equipment to the site. Search and rescue operations are ongoing, with authorities working to locate any survivors and assess the structural damage to the tunnel.
The incident has raised concerns about safety protocols in underground construction sites. NHPC officials have pledged a full investigation into the cause of the gas build‑up and will cooperate with local authorities to prevent future accidents.