What Happened After a Tourist Vehicle Plunged into the Teesta River in Sikkim?
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Synopsis
A devastating accident on the Lachen-Lachung highway has left one dead and eight missing after a tourist vehicle plunged into the Teesta River. With rescue operations in full swing, we explore the challenges faced by the teams and the outpouring of support for the victims' families.
Key Takeaways
- One individual deceased and eight missing after vehicle accident.
- Rescue efforts involve multiple agencies and volunteers.
- Challenging terrain complicates rescue operations.
- Authorities advise tourists to stay away from the dangerous highway.
- Investigation into the cause of the accident is ongoing.
Guwahati, May 30 (NationPress) Rescue operations are currently underway following a tragic incident where one individual lost their life and eight others remain unaccounted for after a tourist vehicle plunged over 1,000 feet into the tumultuous Teesta River from the hazardous Lachen-Lachung highway in northern Sikkim, according to officials on Friday.
The accident took place on Thursday evening.
The vehicle was transporting 11 individuals - comprising 10 tourists and the driver - when it met with the accident near Munsithang in the Mangan district, an area famed for its challenging landscape and serpentine mountain routes.
Rescue teams have successfully retrieved one body from the river and rescued two critically injured survivors from the wreckage.
The search continues for the remaining eight passengers.
An extensive search and rescue operation commenced immediately, involving personnel from the Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP), the Army, the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), along with local volunteers, all working diligently through the night.
The operation is directed by Mangan Superintendent of Police Sonam Detchu Bhutia. The two injured survivors were stabilized at the Chungthang field hospital before being transferred to STNM Hospital in Gangtok; their current condition remains unknown.
Sikkim Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang, in a Facebook update, expressed profound sadness over the “tragic road accident near Chubombu” and affirmed that the state government is “fully committed to providing all necessary support to the victims and their families”.
Teams from the NDRF have since joined the effort, which is facing significant challenges due to the Teesta River’s strong currents and the remote, hazardous location of the accident site.
The Lachen-Lachung highway is a crucial route for tourism in northern Sikkim, granting access to several high-altitude attractions. However, it is also notorious for landslides, sharp bends, and steep drops that dangerously edge the river below. Authorities have secured the area and advised tourists to refrain from using the route until further notice.
The cause of the accident remains under investigation, and officials have yet to disclose the identities of the deceased or the injured. District officials, including the Mangan District Collector, are closely overseeing the ongoing rescue operations as teams diligently search for the missing individuals.
Point of View
The unfortunate event highlights the inherent dangers of travel in rugged regions like Sikkim. As efforts to locate the missing individuals continue, it is crucial for authorities to assess road safety measures to prevent such tragedies in the future, ensuring that tourism can thrive without compromising safety.
NationPress
08/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What caused the accident on the Lachen-Lachung highway?
The cause of the accident is still under investigation, and details have not been released.
How many people were in the vehicle?
The vehicle was carrying a total of 11 individuals, including 10 tourists and the driver.
What measures are being taken for the rescue operations?
Rescue operations are being conducted by the Indo-Tibetan Border Police, the Army, the NDRF, and local volunteers, facing challenges due to the river's strong current.
What are the conditions for the rescued individuals?
Two survivors have been rescued and were initially treated at a field hospital before being transferred to a larger facility; their conditions remain undisclosed.
What is the status of the area following the accident?
The area has been cordoned off by authorities, and tourists are advised to avoid the route until further notice.
