Prime Minister Modi Expresses Condolences Over Tunnel Collapse in Sikkim
Prime Minister Narendra Modi has expressed his condolences following the tragic collapse of a tunnel in Sikkim's Namchi district, which resulted in multiple fatalities. He announced financial assistance for the victims' families and the injured. As rescue operations are underway, authorities estimate that around 27 individuals may still be trapped. The local police and various agencies are working tirelessly to recover those affected, while the exact cause of the incident remains under investigation. This incident has raised concerns about safety and the need for thorough assessments in similar projects.
| Jul 21, 2026, 14:12 IST
Tragic Incident in Sikkim
On Tuesday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his sorrow regarding the fatalities caused by the collapse of a tunnel in the Namchi district of Sikkim. He announced a compensation of ₹2 lakh for the families of the deceased from the Prime Minister's National Relief Fund (PMNRF). Additionally, he declared that those injured in the incident would receive ₹50,000. In a post shared on social media, the Prime Minister conveyed his condolences to the affected families and hoped for a swift recovery for the injured. He stated, 'I am deeply saddened by the loss of lives due to the tunnel collapse in Namchi, Sikkim. My heartfelt sympathies are with the bereaved families.'
Rescue Operations Underway
Meanwhile, Sonam Dolma, the Superintendent of Police for Namchi district, reported that approximately 27 individuals are believed to be trapped inside the tunnel, with 10 bodies already recovered. Dolma mentioned, 'Based on our current estimates, around 27 people are trapped. This number may change, but it stands at 27 according to our information. We have identified most of the deceased, although three remain unidentified, and the process is ongoing.' She added that officials are in contact with the families of the identified victims to arrange for the handover of the bodies. Among the identified deceased, three were from West Bengal, one from Uttarakhand, one from Assam, and one was a local resident of Namchi.
Investigation and Challenges
Dolma further stated that it is premature to determine the exact cause of the incident, emphasizing the need for a thorough investigation, including expert opinions. 'Since last night, our primary focus has been to complete the rescue operations as quickly as possible,' she noted. Various agencies are involved in the rescue efforts, including NDRF teams from Pakyong and Siliguri. Local police from Rangpo, Pakyong, and Singtam were among the first responders. The Fire Service and the Sikkim State Disaster Management Authority (SSDMA) are also fully engaged in the operation. The SP mentioned that heavy rainfall has hindered rescue efforts, complicating conditions for rescuers due to water accumulation in the tunnel.