Gangtok, July 21:
At least seven workers have died in a tunnel collapse at an under-construction site in Samardung, Jholungey, under Namchi district of Sikkim, even as search and rescue operations continue to locate those still trapped.
According to the district administration, seven fatalities have been confirmed so far. The bodies have been shifted to Singtam District Hospital, STNM Hospital in Gangtok, and Namchi District Hospital.
Officials said multiple agencies, including the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), Sikkim Police, Fire and Emergency Services, and the Health Department, are engaged in intensive rescue efforts at the site.
The Namchi District Administration, in coordination with various line departments, is overseeing the operation, while the Sikkim State Disaster Management Authority (SSDMA) is closely monitoring the situation.
Namchi District Collector Anupa Tamling said there is a possibility that around 27 workers may be trapped inside the tunnel, though the exact number is yet to be confirmed due to limited information from within the site.
Rescue operations are underway on a war footing, and further updates are awaited as teams continue efforts to reach those trapped.