Sikkim, 20th May 2023: A defence spokesman said on Saturday that the Indian Army has rescued 500 stranded tourists, including 54 children, from north Sikkim as torrential rain triggered landslides and roadblocks in sections of the Himalayan state.
On Friday, heavy rain fell in Lachen, Lachung, and Chungthang. Due to landslides and obstructions in approach, roughly 500 visitors coming to Lachung and Lachen valley were stranded at Chungthang as a result of the downpour, he said.
“Among the stranded tourists were 216 men, 113 women, and 54 children, who were relocated to three different army camps.” “They were given hot meals and warm clothing,” a representative for the defence stated.
He further stated, “The troops’ quick reaction prevented any mishap.” Efforts are being made to open the roads to vehicular traffic as quickly as feasible. The tourists will be given every aid possible till the path is cleared for their next excursion.”
According to him, the military vacated their barracks to accommodate the tourists and make them comfortable for the night. Three medical teams were organised to assess the health of all travellers.
“All tourists were found to be stable after an initial medical check-up by army medical teams,” he added, adding that a woman who had visited Gurudongmar Lake had complained of acute headache and dizziness.
