Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday spoke with Sikkim Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang after a tunnel collapse at the NHPC Teesta Stage VI hydropower project in Namchi district, assuring the state of all possible central assistance as rescue operations continued. The incident occurred at the under-construction tunnel in Samardung at Jholungey and, according to the Sikkim government, has claimed at least 10 lives so far while teams work to recover those still trapped.
During the call, the Prime Minister enquired about the situation and reviewed ongoing rescue efforts, expressing deep concern and offering his sympathies to the affected workers and their families. He pledged the Centre’s full support for both the rescue operation and relief measures.
Chief Minister Tamang thanked Mr Modi for his prompt intervention and said the Centre’s assurance had strengthened the state administration as it carried out rescue efforts under challenging conditions. Tamang said he was closely monitoring the mission and had directed all concerned departments to expedite operations, assist affected families and maintain the highest safety standards during the exercise.
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 teams from Pakyong and Siliguri have also joined the effort.
Earlier in the day officials had reported that seven workers had died in the collapse; the Sikkim government’s later figure of at least 10 fatalities reflects ongoing updates as recovery continues. Authorities have not provided further details on the total number of workers involved or the cause of the collapse pending the conclusion of rescue and initial investigations.
Expressing profound grief, CM Tamang conveyed condolences to the families of the deceased and assured them of the state government’s full support. He also praised the dedication, courage and professionalism of the rescue personnel engaged in the complex operation and appealed to the public to remain calm, avoid circulating unverified information and keep the affected families in their prayers.
Original Source: https://theshillongtimes.com/2026/07/21/pm-modi-speaks-to-sikkim-cm-assures-all-assistance-for-nhpc-tunnel-rescue/
Category: NATIONAL,News Alert
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Publish Date: 2026-07-21 14:38:00
