PTC Web Desk: The bodies of all 25 workers trapped inside an under-construction tunnel in Sikkim have been recovered, bringing the four-day rescue operation to an end. Officials from NHPC confirmed that the search and rescue mission has been completed following the tragic incident.

Accident occurred during tunnel construction

The accident took place on July 20 inside the under-construction Head Race Tunnel (HRT) of the Teesta Stage VI Hydroelectric Project.

Preliminary reports suggest that the incident may have been triggered by a sudden methane gas explosion trapped within the rock formations. The blast reportedly filled the tunnel with smoke and toxic gases, leaving workers trapped inside.

Also Read | Jantar Mantar protest: Hospital records 'pellet wounds' on protester, Delhi Police deny using pellet guns

The rescue operation involved several central and state agencies working together to recover the trapped workers. The operation was carried out with the support of the district administration, National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), the Ministry of Power, Ministry of Home Affairs, Ministry of Defence, and the governments of Sikkim and West Bengal.

High-level investigation ordered

Authorities have announced that a high-level investigation will be conducted to determine the exact cause of the tunnel collapse and identify any lapses in safety measures.

PM Modi announces financial assistance

Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed grief over the loss of lives and extended condolences to the families of the deceased. He announced an ex gratia of Rs 2 lakh from the Prime Minister's National Relief Fund (PMNRF) for the families of each deceased worker. Injured persons will receive Rs 50,000 as financial assistance.

Also Read | Delhi protest LIVE Updates: Centre-CJP talks underway; Supreme Court seeks paper leak probe report