Rescue operations at the Teesta Stage VI Hydroelectric Project in Sikkim concluded after the bodies of all 25 personnel trapped inside the tunnel were recovered, Patel Engineering Limited said on Thursday. The company expressed deep condolences over the loss of lives and announced an ex-gratia assistance of ₹5 lakh for the next of kin of each deceased worker.
The rescue operation was conducted through a coordinated effort involving the Sikkim District Administration, Sikkim Police, the Sikkim government hospitals and paramedical staff, the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), state authorities, Eastern Coalfields Limited, Western Coalfields Limited, NHPC, Patel Engineering’s project team and other emergency response agencies. The company thanked all personnel and agencies for their commitment and coordinated efforts in carrying out the operation under difficult conditions.
Patel Engineering said it would continue to stand by the bereaved families and extend all necessary assistance during the difficult period.
The conclusion of the rescue operation has shifted attention toward relief, rehabilitation and the continuation of infrastructure activities in the region. Business circles in Gangtok are closely watching developments at the strategically important hydropower project, as its progress is linked to employment, contractor activity and the broader economic ecosystem associated with large infrastructure projects in Sikkim. While the tragedy has cast a shadow over the sector, market participants expect the focus to remain on safety measures and the timely resumption of project-related activities.