How Are Sikkim Landslides Impacting Rescue Efforts?
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Synopsis
As Sikkim grapples with severe landslides following torrential rain, the Indian armed forces have launched extensive rescue operations. Discover how the IAF is facilitating evacuations and delivering crucial aid while the Army steps in to assist stranded tourists.
Key Takeaways
- Indian Air Force evacuates 33 people from landslide-affected areas.
- Ongoing relief operations include air-dropping supplies and deploying NDRF teams.
- The Indian Army is facilitating the evacuation of stranded tourists.
- Search continues for six missing individuals in challenging conditions.
- Red alert issued for North Sikkim due to expected heavy rainfall.
Gangtok, June 4 (NationPress) With persistent rainfall and devastating landslides causing chaos in Sikkim, the Indian armed forces are ramping up their Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) operations to support the affected communities in this northeastern state.
On Wednesday, the Indian Air Force (IAF) successfully evacuated 33 individuals, including two nationals from the United States, from the isolated Chaten area in North Sikkim.
Alongside the evacuation, the IAF also air-dropped essential supplies and deployed teams from the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) to assist those in distress.
In a statement regarding the situation, the IAF mentioned, “In response to the catastrophic landslides in Sikkim, Indian Air Force Mi-17 helicopters swiftly initiated HADR operations — delivering relief supplies, deploying NDRF teams, and rescuing 33 stranded individuals, including two US nationals, from the remote Chaten area. The IAF remains dedicated to preserving lives.”
Earlier that day, challenging weather conditions obstructed a mission to evacuate 113 stranded tourists in Lachen.
An Mi-17 helicopter, carrying nine NDRF personnel, departed from Pakyong Airport around 6 a.m. but had to turn back mid-flight due to limited visibility in the Mangan and Chaten regions.
The tourists in Lachen had been isolated for over a day due to multiple landslides that blocked vital roads, disrupting access to the area.
However, the Indian Army has stepped in to aid in the evacuation of 113 tourists from the impacted region, restoring pedestrian access to Lachen and continuing efforts to stabilize the situation.
The Army stated, “The Army is leading search and rescue efforts in North Sikkim. Despite extreme weather and perilous terrain, the Indian Army is assisting local residents and stranded tourists in landslide-affected Lachen — currently cut off and without power. Foot access has been restored, and 113 tourists will be evacuated; 30 have already been airlifted. Every life matters, and every effort continues.”
Meanwhile, the search for six missing individuals continues. Specialized teams equipped with advanced tools are navigating the unstable, high-altitude terrain to locate them.
“Search efforts persist for the six missing persons. Despite the unstable ground and high-altitude challenges, specialized teams and equipment are deployed. The Army remains steadfast: every life matters, and every effort continues,” affirmed the Ministry of Defence (MoD) in a statement.
With adverse weather conditions showing no signs of improvement, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a red alert for North Sikkim, predicting ongoing heavy rainfall for the next three days.
The IMD has indicated that districts such as Gangtok, Mangan, Namchi, Pakyong, and Soreng are likely to experience severe weather conditions in the upcoming days.
Point of View
The situation in Sikkim highlights the resilience and dedication of the Indian armed forces in crisis management. As the nation rallies to support those affected, it is essential to recognize the collaborative efforts between military personnel and disaster response teams in mitigating the impact of natural disasters.
NationPress
08/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What areas in Sikkim are affected by the landslides?
The landslides have impacted several areas in Sikkim, particularly North Sikkim, including remote regions like Chaten and Lachen.
How many people have been evacuated?
The Indian Air Force has successfully evacuated 33 individuals, including two US nationals, from the Chaten region.
What measures are being taken for relief?
Relief efforts include air-dropping supplies, deploying NDRF teams, and conducting rescue operations by the Indian Army.
Is there ongoing search and rescue for missing persons?
Yes, specialized teams are actively searching for six missing individuals in the region, utilizing advanced equipment.
What is the weather forecast for Sikkim?
The India Meteorological Department has issued a red alert for North Sikkim, predicting continuous heavy rainfall for the next three days.
