Prime Minister Modi Assures Sikkim CM of Support in NHPC Tunnel Rescue Efforts

Gangtok, India Jul 21, 2026 ALN: 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.

The NHPC Teesta Stage VI hydropower project is a significant infrastructure initiative aimed at harnessing the hydropower potential of the Teesta River, which flows through the state of Sikkim. The project has been under construction for several years and is expected to contribute substantially to the state's energy needs and economic development. However, such large-scale projects often come with inherent risks, particularly in the challenging terrain of the Himalayas, where landslides and geological instability can pose serious threats to worker safety.

In the wake of the tragedy, there is heightened scrutiny on construction safety protocols and the measures implemented by NHPC (National Hydroelectric Power Corporation) to ensure the well-being of workers. The incident has raised questions about the adequacy of safety measures in place, particularly in high-risk environments such as tunnels and hydropower projects. Industry experts emphasize the importance of rigorous safety standards and regular training for workers to mitigate risks associated with such hazardous work environments.

Moreover, the incident has significant implications for the local community, as many families depend on employment opportunities created by such infrastructure projects. The loss of lives not only affects the immediate families of the deceased but also has a ripple effect on the broader community, which may rely on these jobs for their livelihood. The government’s response to the tragedy, including the provision of support to the affected families, will be closely monitored by the public and advocacy groups who advocate for worker rights and safety.

As rescue operations continue, the focus will also shift to the recovery and rehabilitation of the affected families. The government has a responsibility to ensure that those impacted receive adequate support, including financial assistance, counseling, and job placement services for family members who may have lost their primary breadwinners. Such comprehensive support is crucial for helping the community recover from the psychological and economic impacts of the tragedy.

In addition to immediate rescue and relief operations, the incident serves as a stark reminder of the need for continuous improvement in disaster management and response strategies. Authorities may need to reassess current protocols and invest in advanced technology and training to enhance their preparedness for future emergencies. This includes not only the physical safety of workers but also the mental health aspects of those involved in high-stress environments, which can have lasting effects on individuals and communities.

Overall, the NHPC tunnel tragedy highlights the complex interplay between infrastructure development and worker safety, raising critical questions about the balance between economic growth and the protection of human life. As the rescue efforts progress, it is imperative that lessons learned from this incident are integrated into future projects to prevent similar tragedies from occurring in the future.

The government's commitment to support the affected families is a step in the right direction, but it must be coupled with a broader dialogue on safety standards, regulatory oversight, and community engagement in the planning and execution of large-scale infrastructure projects. Only through a comprehensive approach can the state and its people ensure that development does not come at the cost of human lives.