Suspected methane blast in Sikkim tunnel kills at least 15

India Jul 23, 2026

A tragic explosion from suspected methane gas at Sikkim's Teesta Stage-VI hydroelectric project on July 20 took the lives of at least 15 workers.

The blast happened deep inside tunnel 4B, causing a landslide that trapped many people.

NHPC says a "sudden burst of suspected methane gas" left no time for escape.

NHPC offers ₹5L per family

Methane is an invisible, odorless gas that can turn explosive in tunnels, something Sikkim's projects have struggled with for years.

After the tragedy, NHPC announced ₹500,000 compensation for each victim's family.

A Special Investigation Team is looking into what went wrong, and rescue teams are still searching for anyone trapped inside.