The evacuation process for tourists stranded in Chungthang, North Sikkim, commenced on Monday, with nine tourists successfully evacuated in the first phase by road from Toong via Mangan.
Recent incessant rainfall and a cloudburst have triggered multiple massive landslides around Mangan and various other locations across the district, causing significant disruption. The areas of Dzongu, Chungthang, and Lachung remain inaccessible by road, with major bridges washed away by the Teesta River.
A dedicated team from Sikkim Tourism trekked from Mangan to Lachung on Sunday to oversee the evacuation efforts and assess road conditions. Initially, the plan was to airlift the tourists using helicopters from the Indian Air Force (IAF) and the Tourism Department. However, due to adverse weather conditions, the evacuation had to be carried out by road.
Tourism Minister Tshering Thendup Bhutia addressed the press on Sunday, stating that around 1,800 tourists, including drivers, were stranded in North Sikkim. He added that IAF helicopters are on standby at Bagdogra Airport, ready to fly for evacuation once the weather improves.
The evacuation is being conducted in phases, with priority given to patients, children, and senior citizens. The coordinated efforts are being facilitated by the District Administration of Mangan, the Tourism and Civil Aviation Department, Forest Officials, and the Travel Agents Association of Sikkim (TAAS).
