How is the Indian Army Responding to the North Sikkim Landslide?

Gangtok, June 4 (NationPress) Following a catastrophic landslide in North Sikkim, the Indian Army is tirelessly engaged in rescue operations amidst severe weather and perilous terrain, as reported by officials on Wednesday.

A senior official stated that Lachen village, a key tourist destination in the area, remains entirely isolated. The Army has restored foot access to the village and has successfully reached out to 113 tourists who are stranded, preparing them for evacuation.

“On Tuesday, military helicopters effectively airlifted 30 tourists, including several foreign nationals,” the official added.

Efforts to locate six individuals still unaccounted for after the landslide hit a military camp at Chaten are ongoing. The missing persons include Lieutenant Colonel Pritpal Singh Sandhu, Subedar Dharamveer, Naik Sunilal Muchahary, Sepoy Sainudheen P.K., Squadron Leader Aarti Sandhu (Retd), wife of Lieutenant Colonel Sandhu, and their daughter, Miss Amayra Sandhu.

The Army has deployed specialized teams and engineering equipment; however, their efforts have been severely obstructed by treacherous weather, unstable ground conditions, and the demanding high-altitude landscape.

Simultaneously, with relentless rain causing floods and landslides throughout the Northeastern region, Union Minister for Development of North Eastern Region (DoNER) and Communications, Jyotiraditya M. Scindia, has promised comprehensive assistance from the Central government to the impacted states.

In a series of high-level discussions, Scindia contacted the Chief Ministers of Assam and Sikkim, along with the Governor of Manipur, to assess the evolving situation and express the Centre’s solidarity with the region's residents.

During his dialogue with Sikkim Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang, Scindia assured the Centre’s unwavering support, stating, “We are fully committed to aiding the people of Sikkim during these challenging times.”

He also communicated with Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma, assuring all necessary support for relief and rehabilitation efforts.

The Union Minister further engaged with Manipur Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla to discuss the effects of the adverse weather in the state, reaffirming the government’s commitment to providing all possible assistance.

On social media platform X, Scindia shared updates about his outreach efforts and reiterated the Centre’s commitment to a rapid, coordinated response, standing united with the northeastern region during this crisis.