PM Modi announces ex-gratia for NHPC Teesta-VI tunnel tragedy victims; speaks with CM on rescue
Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke with Sikkim Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang-Golay about rescue efforts after the NHPC Teesta Stage-VI tunnel tragedy and has
Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke by phone with Sikkim Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang-Golay after a deadly incident at the under-construction tunnel of the NHPC Teesta Stage-VI Hydroelectric Project in Samardung, Jholungey, in Namchi district. The incident has triggered rescue operations involving multiple agencies at the site.
Ex-gratia announced for deceased and injured
In a message shared by the Chief Minister on Tuesday morning, Golay said the Prime Minister enquired about the situation and the rescue work. The Chief Minister noted that Modi expressed concern for the affected workers and their families and assured every possible assistance from the Government of India.
Modi also expressed anguish over the loss of lives and conveyed condolences to the bereaved families. He prayed for the speedy recovery of those injured. The Prime Minister announced an ex-gratia payment of Rs 2 lakh from the Prime Minister’s National Relief Fund (PMNRF) to the next of kin of each deceased. For injured people, the ex-gratia amount announced was Rs 50,000 each.
The Chief Minister said Golay was informed about the ongoing coordination among responders. He stated that the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), SSDMA, district administration, local police, and medical teams from Rangpo PHC are working together with the local community. He also referenced that rescue teams are operating in close coordination to support those affected.
Rescue efforts continue after suspected methane gas incident
According to the Chief Minister’s statement, eleven bodies have been recovered so far from the under-construction tunnel, while several people remain trapped inside. The casualties reportedly followed a suspected methane gas-induced explosion. Union Home Minister Amit Shah also called the Chief Minister to review the situation and the rescue efforts, and was briefed about the response being carried out by the state and agencies including the NDRF.
Golay thanked the Prime Minister and the Union Home Minister for their support and concern. He said their messages brought strength and reassurance to people of Sikkim during the difficult time.
