Are Tourists Safe After the Landslide? Sikkim Remains Open for Travel, Says CM Tamang
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Synopsis
In light of recent landslides affecting northern Sikkim, Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang reassures travelers that the state is still open for tourism. With efforts underway to assist stranded tourists, he highlights the beauty and accessibility of the remaining districts.
Key Takeaways
- Sikkim is still open for tourism, except for Lachen and Lachung.
- Efforts are being made to evacuate stranded tourists safely.
- The state is focusing on rebuilding infrastructure to prevent future issues.
- All other districts are accessible and safe for travelers.
- Tourists are encouraged to explore the natural beauty of Sikkim.
Gangtok, June 5 (NationPress) Sikkim's Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang announced on Thursday that currently, only the Lachen and Lachung areas in the northern region of the state are inaccessible to tourists, while all other attractions remain open.
"Sikkim is eager to host travelers. All six districts, not just Mangan, have stunning locations available for exploration," he urged, encouraging visitors to discover the state’s natural beauty.
The CM also clarified recent misconceptions regarding infrastructure damage in the area. Earlier reports indicated that five bridges were lost during the 2023 Glacial Lake Outburst Flood (GLOF).
He explained that these structures were actually damaged during this year's monsoon season due to exceptionally heavy rains.
Chief Minister Tamang emphasized that the state, with the aid of the Central government, is dedicated to long-term development and is focused on rebuilding and fortifying all vulnerable bridges across Sikkim to avert future issues.
Even though North Sikkim is facing temporary challenges, officials confirmed that the rest of the state is safe, accessible, and welcoming to tourists. Nearly 1,500 visitors were stranded in the popular destinations of Lachen and Lachung after the Phidang bridge—a crucial link—was significantly damaged.
The situation worsened due to a landslide at the Chhaten Army camp near Lachen, which hindered road evacuations.
While all tourists in Lachung were successfully rescued earlier, air evacuations had to be implemented for those in Lachen.
The evacuation is being carried out in stages, with half of the stranded tourists airlifted on Tuesday and the remaining group being flown out today.
The initial air operations began from the army helipad in Chhaten, where both tourists and military personnel are being rescued and transported to the Greenfield Airport in Pakyong.
Point of View
It's crucial to communicate that despite temporary disruptions due to natural calamities, Sikkim remains a safe and inviting destination for tourists. The government's proactive measures to ensure safety and accessibility reflect its commitment to tourism and local development.
NationPress
08/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Sikkim safe for tourists after the landslide?
Yes, Sikkim remains safe for tourists, with only specific areas temporarily closed. The rest of the state is open for travel.
What areas in Sikkim are currently closed?
The Lachen and Lachung sectors in northern Sikkim are currently closed to visitors.
How is the government assisting stranded tourists?
The government is conducting air evacuations for stranded tourists and is committed to rebuilding damaged infrastructure.
What precautions are in place for tourists?
Authorities are ensuring safety measures and monitoring conditions to facilitate safe travel across all accessible areas.
Can tourists still explore other districts in Sikkim?
Absolutely! All six districts, excluding the closed areas, are open and ready for exploration.
