Indian Army Evacuates 135 Tourists in North Sikkim Amid Landslide Crisis
Synopsis
In a significant rescue effort, the Indian Army has evacuated 135 tourists stranded due to landslides in North Sikkim. Operation Him Setu is underway to ensure the safety of the remaining tourists, highlighting the Army's commitment to civilian safety.
Key Takeaways
Operation Him Setu is underway to rescue stranded tourists in North Sikkim.
135 tourists have been successfully evacuated so far.
Approximately 1,000 tourists are still awaiting evacuation.
Army vehicles are aiding in towing stranded civilian vehicles.
Coordination with the Border Roads Organisation is ongoing for road clearance.
Gangtok, April 9 (NationPress) - The Indian Army has successfully rescued 135 tourists who were stranded in North Sikkim due to landslides that have disrupted road access, officials reported on Thursday. Defence spokesman Lt Col Mahendra Rawat indicated that the Trishakti Corps of the Indian Army initiated ‘Operation Him Setu’ to facilitate the evacuation of tourists in Lachen, North Sikkim.
The evacuation process is being conducted in stages, with 135 tourists successfully brought to safety, alongside 32 light vehicles and 10 motorcycles.
Currently, around 1,000 tourists remain stranded in Lachen, and efforts are ongoing to ensure their safe evacuation as soon as possible, as noted by officials.
Army vehicles are actively towing civilian vehicles through challenging steep and snow-covered terrains, with medical emergencies and individuals needing assistance being prioritized for evacuation.
According to Lt Col Rawat, a landslide has caused significant disruption in road connectivity between Lachen and Chungthang, severely affecting transportation in the area. In response, the Trishakti Corps under the Eastern Command of the Indian Army has launched ‘Operation Him Setu’ to restore access and aid stranded visitors.
Despite adverse weather conditions and heavy snowfall, troops have managed to open critical passes and establish alternative routes for evacuation.
The Defence spokesman also mentioned that the Border Roads Organisation (BRO) is collaborating closely with the Trishakti Corps to ensure continuous road clearance, snow removal, and restoration of connectivity in challenging weather and terrain.
The Indian Army is working in tandem with local civil authorities, providing ground support, medical assistance, and facilitating evacuation efforts as conditions allow.
Another official from the Army stated, “Our main priority is the safety and welfare of every citizen. Our teams are dedicated to delivering all necessary assistance on the ground.”
The situation is being continuously monitored, as per the spokesman.
A representative from the Sikkim government also confirmed the occurrence of multiple landslides that have affected road connectivity between Lachen and Chungthang, with the impacted area being in proximity to the India-China border.
Point of View
The Indian Army's swift action to rescue stranded tourists in North Sikkim underscores a commitment to public safety during natural crises. The ongoing efforts highlight the importance of coordinated response in challenging conditions.
NationPress
19 Jul 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What caused the tourists to become stranded in North Sikkim?
Landslides have disrupted road connectivity in North Sikkim, particularly affecting travel between Lachen and Chungthang.
How many tourists have been rescued so far?
The Indian Army has successfully rescued 135 tourists to date.
What is Operation Him Setu?
Operation Him Setu is a rescue operation launched by the Indian Army's Trishakti Corps to evacuate stranded tourists in North Sikkim.
Are there still tourists stranded in the area?
Yes, approximately 1,000 tourists remain stranded in Lachen, and evacuation efforts are ongoing.
How is the Army assisting with evacuations?
The Army is using specialized vehicles to tow civilian vehicles and provide medical assistance as needed.
