Northeast Desk, 19th June: The Sikkim administration successfully evacuated 1,225 tourists from Lachung and surrounding regions on the second day of evacuation efforts, following severe landslides. The operation commenced at 8 am on June 19, led by ADM Mangan Vishu Lama under the directives of District Magistrate Hem Kumar Chettri.
Key officials, including SP Mangan Sonam Detchu Bhutia and BDO Mangan Kailash Thapa, coordinated with personnel from various departments, the Border Roads Organisation (BRO), National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), local panchayats, and volunteers. They ensured the safe transit of tourists across hazardous areas affected by the landslides.
Vehicles provided by the Motor Vehicle Division under the Transport Department facilitated transportation where roads were passable. The tourists, upon reaching Mangan, expressed gratitude to the state government, administration, BRO, NDRF, SDRF, and locals for their rescue and care.
While air evacuation remains on standby, with six MI helicopters ready at Bagdogra, it is contingent on weather conditions. The district administration continues to stay vigilant and prepared for any further challenges.
The Trishakti Corps has been instrumental in aiding the evacuation of over 1,200 tourists stranded since June 12 and 13. The evacuation process, which began on June 17, has seen troops providing significant support to the civil administration’s relief operations, with tourists being transported both on foot and by vehicle as circumstances allow.
Read More: Cyber Police in Guwahati Recover Rs 40,380 in Swift Action Following Cyber Scam