Tragic Accident in Sikkim: Vehicle Plunges into Teesta River

A devastating accident in North Sikkim has left one person dead, two injured, and eight missing after a tourist vehicle fell into the Teesta River. The incident occurred late Thursday night, prompting immediate rescue efforts involving local authorities and emergency teams. Among the missing is a leader from the Odisha BJP Mahila Morcha. Sikkim's Chief Minister has expressed condolences and assured support for the victims' families. Ongoing search operations are being conducted to locate the missing individuals, while authorities have advised tourists to avoid the area until further notice.

By Narendra Chaudhary May 30, 2025, 13:54 IST

Accident Overview

Gangtok, May 30: A tragic incident occurred in North Sikkim's Mangan district, where a vehicle carrying 11 tourists fell into the Teesta River, resulting in one fatality, two injuries, and eight individuals reported missing, according to police reports on Friday.

The vehicle went over 1,000 feet down into the river near Munsithang on the Lachen-Lachung highway late Thursday night. Authorities confirmed that two people with serious injuries have been rescued, and one body has been recovered.

Superintendent of Police Mangan, Sonam Detchu Bhutia, stated that eight tourists remain unaccounted for.

It has been reported that Itishree Jena, a leader of the Odisha BJP Mahila Morcha, is among those missing.

Sikkim's Chief Minister, Prem Singh Tamang, expressed his sorrow over the accident via a Facebook post, stating, "I am deeply saddened by the tragic road accident that occurred on the night of May 29 near Chubombu, Mangan district, where a tourist vehicle fell into the Teesta River while travelling from Lachen to Lachung. My heartfelt prayers are with the victims and their families during this extremely difficult time."

The Chief Minister noted that rescue operations commenced promptly under the guidance of the SP Mangan, involving police, ITBP, fire and medical teams, along with local volunteers.

He mentioned that two individuals have been rescued and are currently receiving medical attention. The search for the remaining individuals continues, with NDRF teams now part of the operation.

"Our government is fully committed to extending all possible support to the victims and their families. We are closely monitoring the situation and ensuring that every necessary resource is deployed for the ongoing rescue and relief efforts. Let us stand united in this hour of grief and extend our support to those affected," the CM added.

Further details regarding the deceased, injured, and the cause of the accident are still pending. Authorities have secured the area and advised tourists to refrain from unnecessary travel along the route until further notice.