Gangtok, April 9: The Indian Army successfully rescued all 1,321 tourists and 84 local residents stranded due to a landslide in North Sikkim on Thursday. The landslide disrupted road connectivity in the region.
Defence spokesperson Lieutenant Colonel Mahendra Rawat announced that the operation, named ‘Operation Him Setu’, was completed without any incidents. Despite adverse weather conditions, the rescue operation was carried out in a coordinated and efficient manner within 48 hours.
According to officials, a footbridge was constructed on the damaged Lachen-Chungthang road, restoring connectivity and enabling safe and continuous evacuations. Relief centers were established at key locations, providing food, shelter, and medical assistance to those in need. Medical teams were also deployed to assist the affected individuals.
Army vehicles helped retrieve civilian vehicles trapped in difficult terrains. Despite heavy snowfall and poor weather, soldiers opened crucial mountain passes, facilitating faster rescue operations.
This mission was conducted by the Indian Army’s Trishakti Corps under the Eastern Command, ensuring the safe evacuation of individuals while maintaining a constant presence on the ground.
The operation was carried out in collaboration with civil administration and the Border Roads Organization (BRO), which worked to clear roads, remove snow, and restore connectivity under challenging geographical and weather conditions.
Another official confirmed that multiple landslides had disrupted road connectivity between Lachen and Chungthang, an area near the India-China border. The situation is being monitored continuously.
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