Governor and Chief Minister visit NHPC tunnel mishap site, review rescue and relief operations

NAMCHI, (IPR): Governor Om Prakash Mathur and Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang today visited the incident site at ADIT-3 tunnel of NHPC ltd Teesta Stage VI Hydropower Project at Samardung in Namchi district to assess the situation following the unfortunate tunnel accident that occurred yesterday on July 20 at around 1:05 pm.

The incident reportedly took place when approximately 25 workers, along with project officials, became trapped inside the tunnel after a methane gas combustion, leaving several of them severely affected.

During their visit, the Governor and the Chief Minister were briefed by DC and senior SP of Namchi district, NHPC officials and emergency response agencies on the circumstances surrounding the incident, the ongoing rescue operation, and the medical treatment being provided to the affected personnel.

Expressing deep concern over the mishap, both dignitaries interacted with the officials on the ground and directed that every possible measure be taken to ensure the best medical care and support for the injured workers. They also reviewed the progress of the rescue operation and emphasised the importance of strict adherence to safety protocols at all industrial and infrastructure project sites.

They directed NHPC chairman and managing director Bhupender Gupta to ensure that compensation is disbursed to the victims at the earliest. It was announced that the State government would provide ex-gratia of Rs. 4 lakhto the families of each deceased worker, while Rs. 50,000 would be granted to each injured person as an immediate financial relief.

Further, the district administration was directed to establish a dedicated mechanism at Rangpo for the identification of the deceased and to ensure that all necessary assistance and support are extended to the affected families, particularly those from other States, during this difficult time.

The Governor and the Chief Minister also commended the prompt and coordinated efforts of the district administration, rescue teams, medical personnel, NHPC officials, and all other agencies involved in the emergency response for their unwavering commitment in managing the crisis.

During the visit, they were also thoroughly briefed by Manish Kumar Ranjan, commandant of the 2nd Battalion, NDRF, Kolkata, on status and the progress of the rescue operation, its execution, and the challenges involved in recovering the trapped workers inside the tunnel.

The State government is continuously monitoring the situation on the highest priority. Search and rescue efforts are being carried out in close coordination with NHPC, with support from including NDRF, Mines Rescue Team Asansol and the State's rescue agencies, namely the SDRF and Fire and Emergency Services.