The rescue operations in North Sikkim concluded on Wednesday with the evacuation of the remaining 158 stranded tourists, according to Mangan District Magistrate Hem Kumar Chettri.
Over the last three days, a total of 1,447 stranded tourists have been successfully evacuated. On Tuesday alone, 1,225 tourists were rescued, followed by 64 on Monday.
“With the rescue of 158 tourists on the final day, all 1,447 stranded tourists have been evacuated,” stated Chettri.
These tourists, stranded in Lachung for several days due to landslides triggered by heavy rain, were transported to Mangan town via Chungthang. Most were then taken to the state capital, Gangtok, in vehicles provided by the transport department.
The rescue operation saw the combined efforts of the district administration, police, BRO, NDRF, SDRF, Travel Agents' Association of Sikkim (TAAS), local panchayats, and volunteers.
Mangan district, known for its popular tourist spots like Gurudongmar Lake and Yumthang Valley, has been heavily affected by the natural calamity. Landslides have claimed six lives, damaged properties, and disrupted power, food supplies, and mobile networks.
Approximately 1,500 tourists, including some foreigners, were stranded in Lachung due to the landslides. The district’s road network is severely damaged, leading to the closure of schools in 10 clusters of Mangan and Dzongu blocks until further notice.
The Border Roads Organisation is actively working to clear the roads and restore connectivity.
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