In a rapid response to the landslide havoc in Sikkim’s Lachung, over 200 stranded tourists have been successfully evacuated, with more than 1,000 still awaiting rescue, revealed senior police officials today.
Superintendent of Police Sonam Detchu Bhutia confirmed that a significant number of tourists were safely transported from Lachung via Chungthang to Mangan town, where arrangements by the Transport department are underway to ferry them to Gangtok.
“The evacuation effort intensified today, with 150 tourists rescued, following yesterday’s successful evacuation of 64 individuals,” reported district officials.
Teams comprising district administration, BRO, SDRF, NDRF, and volunteers have been tirelessly aiding the rescue operation, with 15 more tourists evacuated earlier today.
In response to safety concerns stemming from the landslide and subsequent road blockages, District Magistrate Hem Kumar Chettri has ordered the immediate closure of all government schools in Mangan district until further notice. The decision affects schools in Manul, Singhik, Mangan, Mangshilla, Lingdong, Hee Gyathang, Passingdong, Lingzya, Tingvong, and Gor clusters.
Officials remain vigilant as they anticipate further evacuations amid ongoing heavy rainfall that has wreaked havoc across Mangan district since the night of June 12-13.
