Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday, July 21, spoke to Sikkim Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang to review the rescue operation at the under-construction NHPC Teesta Stage VI Hydroelectric Project tunnel in Namchi district and assured the state of all possible assistance from the Centre after the tragedy claimed eight lives.
According to the Chief Minister’s Office (CMO), Modi reviewed the situation following the incident at Samardung in Jholungey, where eight workers died after a methane gas explosion triggered a landslide inside the tunnel.
During the conversation, the Prime Minister expressed concern over the tragedy and conveyed his condolences to the families of the deceased. He assured the Sikkim Government of every possible assistance from the Centre to support the ongoing rescue and relief operations.
Tamang thanked Modi for his timely intervention and support, saying the Centre’s assurance had strengthened the state’s efforts as rescue operations continued.
Rescue operations are being carried out jointly by the National Disaster Response Force, State Disaster Response Force, Sikkim State Disaster Management Authority, district administration, Sikkim Police, Fire and Emergency Services, medical teams from Rangpo Primary Health Centre and local volunteers. Specialised teams from Pakyong and Siliguri are also assisting in the operation.
The Chief Minister said he was closely monitoring the rescue efforts and had directed all departments and agencies concerned to expedite the operation, provide all possible assistance to affected families and maintain the highest safety standards.
Tamang also expressed condolences to the families of the workers who lost their lives and praised the rescue personnel working under difficult conditions.
He appealed to the public to remain calm, avoid circulating unverified information and keep the affected workers and their families in their prayers.
The state government reiterated its commitment to ensuring that the rescue operation was conducted safely and efficiently while providing all necessary support to the families affected by the tragedy.
