Over 1,000 tourists have been stranded in North Sikkim after heavy rainfall triggered significant landslides along the Lachen-Chungthang and Lachung-Chungthang routes. The landslides, which occurred in the Munshithang and Lema/Bob areas, have blocked vital roadways, leaving vehicles trapped and access nearly impossible.
Visuals from the scene showed the roadways covered with debris, and several flooded stretches exacerbating the difficulties for stranded tourists.
"A massive landslide has occurred at Munshithang on the Lachen-Chungthang road and Lema/Bob on the Lachung-Chungthang road. Further, it has been raining continuously in North Sikkim. The road to Chungthang is open, but due to heavy rain, it cannot be accessed at night," said Sonam Dechu Bhutia, Superintendent of Police, Mangan district.
"Heavy rainfall triggered the landslide. The government is working to transport tourists to Gangtok and safer locations. We have been providing shelter to those stranded here and assisting them with their daily necessities," said local resident Pranita Chettri.
Authorities have temporarily suspended the issuance of travel permits for North Sikkim due to the hazardous conditions. "Permits for North Sikkim will not be issued tomorrow, and all the advanced permits issued are deemed cancelled," Bhutia confirmed.
Around 200 vehicles, mostly carrying tourists, are stranded in Chungthang, nearly 100 km from the state capital, Gangtok. With roads cut off, many of the stranded tourists have sought refuge at a local Gurudwara. Police have advised tour operators to refrain from sending additional tourists to the region until further notice.
The ongoing situation has raised concerns for the safety and well-being of the stranded tourists, and authorities are working to clear the debris and restore access to affected areas.
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