Army rescues 135 tourists in North Sikkim amid landslides; many still stranded
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Gangtok: The Indian Army has rescued 135 stranded tourists from North Sikkim, where landslides have disrupted road connectivity, officials said on Thursday.
Defence spokesman Lt Col Mahendra Rawat said the Trishakti Corps launched ‘Operation Him Setu’ to evacuate tourists stranded at Lachen. The operation is being conducted in phases. So far, 135 tourists have been safely evacuated, along with 32 light vehicles and 10 motorcycles.
Approximately 1,000 tourists remain stranded in Lachen, and sustained efforts are underway to ensure their safe evacuation at the earliest, Lt Col Rawat added. Army vehicles are being used to tow civilian vehicles across steep and snowbound stretches, while medical emergencies and other citizens needing assistance are being prioritised.
A landslide has disrupted the road between Lachen and Chungthang, severely affecting movement in the region. Responding swiftly, the Trishakti Corps under Eastern Command launched Operation Him Setu to restore access and assist stranded tourists. Despite severe weather and heavy snowfall, troops have cleared critical passes and activated alternate routes to facilitate evacuation.
The Defence spokesman said the Border Roads Organisation (BRO) is working closely with the Army to continuously clear roads, remove snow, and restore connectivity under challenging terrain and weather conditions.
The Indian Army is also coordinating with civil administration, providing on-ground support, medical aid, and evacuation assistance wherever conditions permit. Another Army official stated, “Our foremost priority is the safety and well-being of every citizen. Our teams remain committed to providing all necessary assistance on the ground.”
A Sikkim government official confirmed that multiple landslides have disrupted road connectivity between Lachen and Chungthang. The affected area lies close to the India-China border.
The situation continues to be closely monitored.
With IANS inputs