12 workers trapped in Sikkim tunnel after landslide blocks entrance

NAMCHI (Sikkim): At least 12 workers were trapped inside an under-construction road tunnel in Sikkim's Namchi district after a landslide blocked its entrance on Monday afternoon, police said. The landslide also triggered a suspected gas leak inside the Samardung tunnel, according to officials. Authorities said the gas is believed to be naturally emanating from underground strata or rock formations disturbed by the landslide. Rescue teams from the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), police and the Fire and Emergency Services have been deployed at the site and are carrying out rescue operations."Rescue operations are underway, but the operation has been complicated by the presence of gas inside the tunnel. Several rescue personnel experienced dizziness and lost consciousness while attempting to reach the trapped workers," he said."Ambulances have been kept on standby, while rescuers equipped with gas masks are trying to reach the trapped workers inside the tunnel," he added. Officials said the tunnel is being constructed as part of a highway project. Rescue efforts were continuing at the time of filing this report.(With Agency Inputs)Get the latest City News and Live updates. Download the TOI app.You Can Also Check: Gold Rate in Guwahati | Silver Rate in Guwahati | Bank Holidays in Guwahati | Public Holidays in Guwahati | Guwahati AQI | Weather in Guwahati | Petrol Price in Guwahati | Diesel Price in Guwahati | CNG Price in Guwahati | LPG Price in GuwahatiStay updated with the latest Guwahati news. Download the TOI App.