NHPC expresses grief over tragedy, pledges support to bereaved families as multi-agency operation concludes
NEW DELHI: The massive rescue operation at the under-construction Head Race Tunnel (HRT) of NHPC’s Teesta Stage-VI Hydroelectric Project in Sikkim has concluded with the recovery of the bodies of all 25 personnel who were trapped following a devastating underground explosion earlier this week.
The accident occurred on July 20 when a sudden burst of suspected methane gas trapped within the rock strata inside the tunnel triggered an explosion, filling the underground passage with dense fumes and toxic gases. The incident led to one of the most challenging industrial rescue operations in recent years.
The multi-agency rescue mission was carried out under extremely hazardous conditions with the coordinated efforts of the District Administration, the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), NHPC, the Ministries of Power, Home Affairs and Defence, the Governments of Sikkim and West Bengal, Coal India Limited, Patel Engineering Limited, Eastern Coalfields Limited, Western Coalfields Limited, local authorities and several other agencies.
NHPC’s top management remained stationed at the project site throughout the operation, closely monitoring rescue efforts and coordinating with the various agencies involved to ensure the mission progressed without interruption.
Expressing profound sorrow over the tragedy, NHPC mourned the loss of all 25 personnel and extended its heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families. “The Company stands firmly with the families during this difficult time and is committed to extending all possible support to them,” NHPC said in a statement.
The public sector hydropower major also expressed gratitude to all organisations and personnel who participated in the rescue operation despite exceptionally difficult and dangerous conditions. It particularly acknowledged the contributions of the District Administration, NDRF, SDRF, Coal India Limited, Patel Engineering Limited, Eastern Coalfields Limited, Western Coalfields Limited, local authorities and numerous individuals who worked tirelessly during the operation.
NHPC further conveyed its special appreciation to the Ministry of Power, Ministry of Home Affairs, Ministry of Defence, and the Governments of Sikkim and West Bengal for their guidance, timely assistance and unwavering support throughout the rescue mission.
