Sikkim Tunnel Disaster: Search for Missing Geologist Continues as 12 Confirmed Dead

Rescue operations are continuing at the under-construction National Hydroelectric Power Corporation (NHPC) Teesta Stage-VI Hydropower Project tunnel in Namchi district of south Sikkim, following a methane gas explosion that caused a collapse on July 20. The blast in the 'Head Race Tunnel' (HRT) released toxic gases, trapping 25 workers inside.

Among those feared trapped is Anish Mohan, a 43-year-old geologist from Kottayam district in Kerala. Mohan, who has been working with NHPC since 2010 as manager of remote sensing, was inside the tunnel when the explosion occurred. Officials from NoRKA-Roots, the field agency under Kerala's Department of Non-Resident Keralites Affairs, confirmed that the search for him is underway. NHPC has informed that steps have been taken to bring Mohan's family to the accident site.

According to the Namchi district administration, 12 individuals have been officially confirmed dead. Of the 12 bodies recovered, 8 have been identified. The disaster occurred at 1:04 p.m. on July 20 when trapped methane gas in the rock strata suddenly ignited, causing a powerful explosion. The blast filled the tunnel with heavy smoke and toxic gases, making rescue efforts challenging.

The National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), Directorate General of Mines Safety (DGMS), and local administration are jointly conducting the rescue operations in coordination with the Sikkim government. Multi-agency teams are working to clear debris and locate any survivors, while ensuring the safety of rescue personnel.

The Teesta Stage-VI project is part of NHPC's hydropower development in the region. The cause of the methane gas accumulation is under investigation. Officials have not yet provided a timeline for the completion of rescue operations, as the unstable tunnel conditions pose ongoing risks. The state government has assured full support to the affected families.