Namchi, July 22 -- The National Hydroelectric Power Corporation (NHPC) has announced an ex-gratia payment of Rs. 5 lakh to the next of kin of each deceased in the unfortunate tunnel collapse incident in Sikkim's Namchi district.

The NHPC has expressed its profound grief over the tragic loss of lives and extends its deepest condolences to the bereaved families in this hour of grief.

The rescue operations at the under-construction Head Race Tunnel (HRT) of NHPC Teesta Stage-VI Hydroelectric Project in South Sikkim are continuing round-the-clock, with close coordination among the District Administration, NDRF, SDRF, NHPC, Patel Engineering Limited (PEL), Eastern Coalfields Limited, Western Coalfields Limited, local authorities and other ag...