Chamoli Hydropower Tunnel Accident
A major accident occurred at an under-construction hydropower project in Uttarakhand's Chamoli district after a sudden surge of water and debris entered a tunnel where workers were carrying out construction activities.
The incident took place at the Vishnugad-Pipalkoti Hydroelectric Project, a 444-MW project being developed by THDC India.
Seven Workers Killed
At least seven workers have been reported dead following the tunnel accident. Officials said 22 workers were inside the tunnel when the sudden surge occurred.
Several workers were rescued alive, while rescue teams continue efforts to locate those who remain missing.
The death toll and number of missing workers could change as the rescue operation continues and authorities complete verification.
Sudden Surge of Water and Debris
According to initial reports, water and debris suddenly rushed into the tunnel, leaving workers trapped inside.
The exact cause of the sudden water surge and the circumstances that led to the incident are being assessed by authorities. Questions are also likely to focus on tunnel safety systems and emergency preparedness at the construction site.
Major Rescue Operation Underway
A large-scale rescue operation has been launched following the accident.
Teams from the NDRF, SDRF, ITBP, Army and local fire services are involved in the operation. Rescue personnel are working to locate workers who may still be trapped inside the tunnel.
However, the operation has been complicated by rising water levels and unstable conditions inside the tunnel, making it difficult for rescue teams to move safely through the affected section.
Concerns Over Construction Safety
The incident has once again raised questions about worker safety at major hydropower and tunnel construction projects in the Himalayan region.
Chamoli and other parts of Uttarakhand are vulnerable to heavy rainfall, flash floods, landslides and unstable geological conditions. Such risks make emergency exits, water-control systems, early warning mechanisms and worker evacuation plans particularly important.
THDC's own project records show that a multi-agency flood rescue preparedness drill was conducted at the Vishnugad-Pipalkoti project in July 2025.
Rescue Teams Continue Search
The immediate priority for authorities is to locate any workers still trapped or missing and bring them out safely.
Rescue teams are continuing operations despite difficult conditions inside the tunnel. Officials are expected to provide further updates as the search progresses and the situation becomes clearer.
