INDIAN ARMY RESCUES 500 TOURISTS STRANDED DUE TO LAND SLIDES AND ROAD BLOCKS IN NORTH SIKKIM.

Heavy torrential rains were witnessed in gen A Lachen, Lachung & Chungthang, on 19 May 2023.  As a result of this, approximately 500 tourists who were traveling to Lachung and Lachen valley were stranded at Chungthang, due to landslides and road blocks enroute. 

On request from SDM Chungthang, troops of Trishakti Corps, Indian Army swung into action and rescued the stranded tourists to safety. The stranded tourists that included 216 male, 113 ladies and 54 children, were moved to three different Army Camps and were provided with hot meals and warm clothing. The troops vacated their barracks to accommodate the tourists and make them comfortable for the night.  

Three medical teams were formed who checked all the tourists. Initial medical check by Army medical team found all tourists to be stable. However, at 0025 Hr on 20 May 23, one lady who had visited Gurudogmar Lake during the day complained of severe headache & dizziness. Medical team including Lady Medical Officer from nearby Field Hospital rushed to the location and detected signs of Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS). She was provided immediate medical care and was shifted to the ICU in the medical hospital. By morning, she was stable. 

The quick reaction by the troops avoided any mishap and ensured comfort for the stranded tourists. Meanwhile, efforts are on, to clear the road for vehicular movement as soon as possible. The tourists will be provided with all assistance until the route is cleared for their further journey. 

Indian Army, while guarding the border in Super High-Altitude areas of the Himalayas, remains proactive in providing assistance to tourists and local population.