PM Modi speaks to Sikkim CM after Namchi tunnel collapse, announces ex gratia

Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke with Sikkim Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang after the Namchi tunnel collapse that killed eight workers. Modi announced ex gratia assistance from the PMNRF, expressed condolences, and assured all possible Central support as rescue and relief operations continue

New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday spoke to Sikkim Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang and took stock of the situation arising out of a tunnel collapse in Namchi district. The PM announced an ex gratia of Rs 2 lakh for the families of those killed and Rs 50,000 for the injured. Eight workers were killed after the tunnel that was under construction collapsed following a landslide on July 20, Tamang announced earlier on Tuesday.

“Anguished by the loss of lives due to the collapse of an under-construction tunnel in Namchi, Sikkim. I extend my deepest condolences to the bereaved families. I pray that those injured recover at the earliest,” Modi said in a post on X.

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The prime minister said an ex gratia of Rs 2 lakh will be given to the next of kin of each deceased and Rs 50,000 will be given to those injured in the incident from the Prime Minister’s National Relief Fund.

Tamang said following the tragic incident at the NHPC Teesta Stage VI Hydroelectric Project tunnel at Samardung, the PM spoke with him to enquire about the situation and the ongoing rescue operations.

“His words of concern and compassion for the affected workers and their families, along with his assurance of every possible assistance from the Government of India, have provided immense strength and reassurance to the people of Sikkim during this difficult hour,” the CM said in a post on X.

He said National Disaster Response Force, State Disaster Response Force, Sikkim State Disaster Management Authority, district administration, local police, medical teams from Rangpo PHC and the local community are working tirelessly and in close coordination to support the rescue efforts and provide all possible assistance to those affected.

“On behalf of the people of Sikkim, I express my heartfelt gratitude to the Hon’ble Prime Minister for his unwavering support, thoughtful concern, and steadfast solidarity with our State in this moment of grief. We deeply value his continued guidance and the Government of India’s commitment to standing with Sikkim in every possible way,” Tamang said.