Saturday, 06 July 2024
Saturday, 06 July 2024
Troops of Trishakti Corps along with Civil Administration undertakes rescue of tourists stranded in North Sikkim on June 18, 2023. In a heroic display of efficiency and dedication, the Sikkim Administration successfully evacuated 1,225 tourists from Lachung and nearby areas of Mangan district on June 18. This rescue operation, now in its third day, comes in the wake of devastating landslides and relentless rains that battered the region last week, claiming at least six lives.
BRO personnel evacuate tourists stranded due to landslides, in Mangan district on June 18, 2023. The administration had already rescued 64 tourists on June 17, safely transporting them to the district headquarters in Mangan. With six helicopters on standby at Bagdogra airport in neighbouring West Bengal, the evacuation of the remaining stranded tourists, estimated to be a few hundred, will proceed on June 19, if the weather permits.
Troops of Trishakti Corps during a rescue operation of locals and tourists after landslides, in North Sikkim district, Tuesday, June 18, 2024. Additional District Magistrate (ADM) Vishnu Lama assured that every measure is in place to ensure the safe evacuation of all remaining tourists. Mangan district, renowned for its scenic attractions like Gurudongmar Lake and Yumthang Valley, found itself cut off due to incessant rains since June 12.
The downpour triggered multiple landslides, rendering most parts of the district inaccessible and stranding around 1,200 tourists in Lachung. Despite the challenging weather and terrain, Indian Army soldiers collaborated with Airtel and BSNL to restore mobile communication, proving crucial for coordination and distress calls.
Among the rescued, more than 115 tourists and locals received medical attention, including a critical emergency response for a 24-year-old in Lachung suffering from High Altitude Pulmonary Oedema and Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome. The Motor Vehicle Division of the Transport Department played a pivotal role in the rescue operation, providing vehicles that transported the rescued individuals from Mangan to the state capital, Gangtok, from where they began their journey to their respective homes.
Troops of Trishakti Corps during a rescue operation of locals and tourists after landslides, in North Sikkim district, Tuesday, June 18, 2024. ADM Lama highlighted the district administration's readiness to remain vigilant and cater to the needs of the remaining tourists, emphasising their preparedness to handle any further challenges that may arise. As Sikkim grapples with the aftermath of this natural calamity, the coordinated response of its administration stands as a testament to the resilience and spirit of the region.
