NEW DELHI: The death toll from the collapse of an under-construction tunnel at a government hydropower project in India’s northeastern state of Sikkim has risen to 20, according to Indian authorities.
The accident occurred on July 20 during the construction of a tunnel for a hydropower project on the Teesta River.
Initial reports indicated that at least nine workers had been killed while 15 others were trapped inside the collapsed tunnel.
Authorities have since confirmed that the number of fatalities has increased to 20 as rescue teams continue recovery operations at the site.
Indian officials said emergency responders have spotted seven to eight additional bodies inside the tunnel, suggesting that the death toll could rise further as rescue efforts continue.
Rescue teams remain engaged in a challenging operation to recover victims and determine whether any workers remain trapped beneath the debris.
Authorities have launched an investigation into the cause of the collapse, while safety assessments are being conducted at the construction site.
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