Wayanad tunnel accident: Union minister calls lapse 'serious', demands probe
Union Minister of State for Petroleum and Natural Gas Suresh Gopi has termed the Wayanad tunnel accident a serious lapse and called for an investigation into the incident that has claimed three lives, injured nine, and left more than five missing.
Speaking to reporters on Tuesday, July 7, 2026, Gopi said he had brought the matter to the attention of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. He noted that the District Collector had previously ordered the removal of soil from the construction site without delay, but the directive was not implemented.
“If that is true, it is a serious lapse that warrants government action,” Gopi said. “The negligence has claimed three lives. Nine people are in hospital, while more than five remain missing.”
The minister stated that the State government is equipped to handle the situation and there is no immediate need for Central forces. He emphasised that the tragedy should serve as a lesson to prevent similar incidents in the future.
Gopi clarified that he is not seeking to blame anyone, but any negligence should be investigated and acted upon without delay. He also called for strict adherence to safety measures by both workers and authorities as tunnel construction continues.
