Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke to Sikkim Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang after the NHPC Teesta Stage VI tunnel tragedy in Namchi district, assuring all possible assistance from the Centre. The rescue operation continues after seven workers lost their lives, with multiple agencies engaged in efforts to locate those still trapped.
Key Highlights
- PM Modi spoke with Sikkim CM Prem Singh Tamang after the NHPC tunnel tragedy.
- The Prime Minister assured full Central assistance for rescue and relief operations.
- Seven workers have been confirmed dead, while rescue efforts continue.
- Multiple agencies, including NDRF, SDRF and SSDMA, are carrying out the operation.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday spoke with Sikkim Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang following the tragic collapse inside the NHPC Teesta Stage VI hydropower project tunnel in Namchi district. During the conversation, the Prime Minister reviewed the ongoing rescue operation and assured the state of all possible assistance from the Centre.
According to the Sikkim government, PM Modi expressed deep concern over the incident at the under-construction tunnel in Samardung at Jholungey and conveyed his condolences to the families of the deceased workers. He assured the state government that the Centre would provide every possible support for rescue and relief measures.
Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang thanked the Prime Minister for his prompt intervention and continuous support, stating that the Centre’s assurance had strengthened the state administration as rescue teams work under challenging conditions.
The rescue operation is being carried out on a war footing by the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), Sikkim State Disaster Management Authority (SSDMA), district administration, Sikkim Police, Fire and Emergency Services, medical teams and local volunteers. Specialised rescue teams from Pakyong and Siliguri have also joined the mission.
The Chief Minister said he is closely monitoring the rescue efforts and has directed all concerned departments to expedite operations, provide every possible assistance to affected families and maintain the highest safety standards during the mission.
Expressing profound grief over the loss of lives, CM Tamang conveyed his condolences to the families of the deceased workers and assured them of the state government’s continued support. He also appreciated the dedication and professionalism of the rescue personnel involved in the difficult operation.
Officials have confirmed that seven workers have died in the tunnel collapse, while efforts continue to rescue and recover the remaining trapped workers.
