After three days of agonizing uncertainty, the rescue of approximately 700 tourists stranded in Lachen, North Sikkim, commenced on Wednesday morning.
Following massive landslides that severed road connectivity, over 130 vehicles were trapped in the high-altitude region. In a coordinated effort, the District Administration, Indian Army, Border Roads Organization (BRO), and local bodies have launched a full-scale evacuation mission.
Due to heavy snowfall blocking the primary Dongkyala Pass, rescuers initially constructed a temporary bamboo footbridge in the Tarum region to move tourists to safety. Mangan DM Anant Jain personally inspected the makeshift bridge to ensure safety protocols. Fortunately, the Army and BRO have managed to partially clear the Dongkyala route, allowing tourists to be moved in phases via Zero Point and Yumthang. All tourists are reported safe, and authorities have instructed hotel owners and tour operators to maintain constant communication as the evacuation continues despite the challenging weather conditions.

