Rescue Operations Successfully Evacuate Tourists from North Sikkim

In a successful rescue operation, 63 tourists stranded in North Sikkim's Chaten were evacuated via helicopters after landslides disrupted the area. While most have been safely transported, 64 others remain in need of assistance. The local government is coordinating with military forces to ensure safety and provide relief. The situation follows a tragic landslide incident that resulted in the loss of military personnel, with ongoing efforts to locate those still missing. Read on for more details about the rescue efforts and the challenges faced.
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Rescue Operations Successfully Evacuate Tourists from North Sikkim

Successful Evacuation of Tourists in North Sikkim

A total of 63 individuals stranded in Chaten, located in North Sikkim, were safely evacuated on Thursday with the assistance of helicopters. Officials reported that most of those rescued were tourists.


This area was affected earlier in the week due to landslides. The military and local authorities have continued their rescue efforts, as 64 additional tourists are still awaiting assistance in Chaten.


Rescue operations were temporarily halted during the day due to adverse weather conditions and the challenging terrain.


Chaten: A Gateway to Gurudongmar Lake

Chaten, a small town near Lachen in the Mangan district, serves as a transit point for travelers heading to the popular tourist destination of Gurudongmar Lake. Authorities indicated that two MI-17 helicopters were deployed to transport 39 individuals to Pakyong Airport.


Additionally, four others were rescued using a Cheetah helicopter, while another MI-17 helicopter flew directly from Bagdogra in West Bengal to evacuate 20 passengers safely.


Ongoing Coordination for Rescue Efforts

State government officials are actively coordinating with armed forces to ensure the safety of individuals and provide relief to those trapped. A landslide on the evening of June 1 had previously claimed the lives of three military personnel at a camp in Chaten, with six soldiers reported missing and several others injured.


Efforts to locate the missing soldiers are still ongoing.


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