Chamoli, August 14, 2026: Seven workers have died after a sudden rush of water and debris entered an under-construction tunnel at the THDC hydropower project in Mayapur, Pipalkoti, in Uttarakhand’s Chamoli district. One worker is still reported missing, while rescue teams continue operations at the site.
Officials said the incident occurred after a landslide created a cavity that allowed water and debris to surge into the tunnel. Fourteen workers were rescued and taken to a hospital in Gopeshwar for treatment.
Teams from the NDRF, SDRF, police, CISF, ITBP and Army have been deployed for the search and rescue operation. Authorities are working in difficult conditions as water continues to pose challenges inside the tunnel.
Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami has directed agencies to intensify relief and rescue efforts and is scheduled to inspect the affected site. The administration is closely monitoring the situation as rescue personnel continue efforts to locate the missing worker.
