Gangtok, July 21: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday spoke to Sikkim Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang following the NHPC Teesta Stage VI hydropower project tunnel tragedy in Namchi district and assured the state of all possible assistance from the Centre as rescue operations continued.
The incident claimed at least 10 lives, and the rescue operation is underway. According to the Sikkim government, the Prime Minister enquired about the situation at the under-construction tunnel in Samardung at Jholungey and reviewed the ongoing rescue efforts.
During the conversation, PM Modi expressed deep concern over the tragedy and conveyed his sympathies to the affected workers and their families. He assured the state government of every possible support from the Centre for the rescue operation and relief measures.
Chief Minister Tamang thanked the Prime Minister for his prompt intervention and continued support, saying the Centre’s assurance had provided strength and reassurance to the state administration as rescue efforts were being carried out under challenging conditions.
The rescue operation is being conducted on a war footing by multiple agencies, including 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 from Rangpo Primary Health Centre and local volunteers. Specialised rescue teams from Pakyong and Siliguri have also joined the operation.
The Chief Minister said he was closely monitoring the rescue mission and had directed all departments concerned to expedite operations, extend every possible assistance to the affected families and ensure the highest safety standards during the exercise.
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 full support during the difficult period. He also appreciated the dedication, courage and professionalism of the rescue personnel engaged in the complex operation.
Appealing to the public, the Chief Minister urged people to remain calm, avoid circulating unverified information and keep the affected workers and their families in their prayers. The Sikkim government reiterated its commitment to ensuring that the rescue operation is carried out safely and efficiently while extending all necessary assistance to the families affected by the tragedy. Earlier in the day, officials confirmed that seven workers had died in the tunnel collapse, while efforts were continuing to recover the remaining trapped workers.
IANS
