Army Rescues 3500 Stranded Tourists From Landslide-hit Sikkim

Kolkata: The Indian Army has rescued 3,500 tourists, who were stranded due to landslides which created roadblocks in Sikkim after a heavy torrential rain in the North Eastern state on Friday.

The travellers were stranded due to the landslides and washing away of a bridge near Chungthang in North Sikkim, the Trishakti Corps of the Eastern Command said on Saturday.

The troops of the Striking Lion Division of the Trishakti Corps and the Border Roads Organisation personnel swung into action. They worked overnight in heavy rains and inclement weather to create a temporary crossing over the flash flood area to facilitate rescue of the tourists.

The Trishakti Corps stated, "The tourists were extended help to cross over the river and were provided with hot meals, tentage and medical support. Over 2000 tourists have crossed over the temporary bridge till 3 pm on Saturday and the rest are being taken care of at Chungthang area."

It added, "Efforts are on to restore the road connectivity while the evacuation of tourists would continue. Tents are being set up and medical aid posts have been set up. The tourists will be provided with all assistance until the route is cleared for their further journey."