CM Hemant Soren Takes Immediate Action After Chamoli Tunnel Accident, Orders Swift Rescue of Jharkhand Workers
Ranchi/Chamoli, August 14, 2026: Chief Minister Hemant Soren has directed the state administration to step up relief, rescue and rehabilitation efforts following the tunnel accident in Chamoli, Uttarakhand, in which seven workers from Jharkhand have been affected.
The accident occurred on Thursday evening at the under-construction tunnel of the Vishnugad-Pipalkoti Hydroelectric Project in the Mayapur-Pipalkoti area of Chamoli district. Water and debris suddenly entered the tunnel, causing it to collapse. At the time of the accident, 29 workers were inside. Seven workers have reportedly died, 19 have been safely evacuated, while three workers remain missing and are believed to be trapped inside.
As soon as information about the incident reached the state government, CM Hemant Soren directed the State Migrant Control Room, operated by the Labour Commissioner’s Office, to take immediate action and ensure coordination with the concerned authorities in Uttarakhand.
Seven Workers from Jharkhand Affected
Seven workers from Jharkhand have been affected in the accident. Shwijay Hansda, a resident of Palsabani village under Dugariya block of East Singhbhum district, died in the incident. Arrangements have been completed to send his mortal remains to his native village by ambulance in coordination with the company management and his family.
Five other workers from Jharkhand were injured and are undergoing treatment at nearby hospitals. They include Habil Gudiya from Tapkara, Nithir Bhingra from Torpa and Dina Begra from Surune in Khunti district, who suffered minor injuries.
Vinod Rawna from Katkahi in Gumla district suffered a fracture to his right leg, while Khela Ram Bisra from Dugariya in East Singhbhum sustained serious injuries. All the injured workers are being provided prompt and appropriate medical treatment.
CM Soren Orders Continued Rescue Efforts
Rescue operations are continuing on a war footing to evacuate the three missing workers trapped inside the tunnel. One of the trapped workers has been confirmed to be from Jharkhand. The state government is making continuous efforts to establish his identity and ensure his safe rescue.
CM Hemant Soren has directed the State Migrant Control Room to maintain constant coordination and provide authentic information to the families of the affected workers through the helpline.
The state government is also taking necessary administrative and legal steps to bring the deceased worker’s mortal remains to Jharkhand and ensure eligible compensation, insurance benefits and other statutory assistance to the family.
The company has already provided immediate financial assistance to the deceased worker’s family for the last rites.
