Landslide Strikes Army Camp in Sikkim, Claims Three Lives: NDRF Joins Rescue Operations

Tragic Incident Amid Heavy Rainfall

A rain-induced landslide hit an army camp in Chaten, located in Lachen region of North Sikkim, on June 1. The incident resulted in the deaths of three army personnel, while six others remain missing. Adverse weather and challenging terrain have complicated ongoing rescue efforts.

The official sources confirmed the identities of the deceased. They were Havaldar Lakhwinder Singh, Lance Naik Munish Thakur, and civilian porter Abhishek Lakhada. Four others were rescued with minor injuries.

Rescue Teams Continue Search Operations

Rescue teams, including the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), are actively involved in search operations for the missing personnel. A team of 23 NDRF members was airlifted to the site from Pakyong Airport on Tuesday. The team is equipped with satellite communication devices. They also carry critical rescue gear. The team is supporting evacuation efforts and restoring temporary communication channels in the area.

Mass Evacuation of Stranded Tourists in Lachung, Sikkim

Meanwhile, a large-scale evacuation effort successfully transported all stranded tourists from Lachung in Sikkim’s Mangan district. The evacuation was successful after the Border Roads Organisation (BRO) restored limited road access. They achieved this by clearing major landslides and repairing breaches. These efforts included repairs near the Phidang suspension bridge.

A total of 1,678 tourists were safely moved across the Theng Check Post. They comprised 737 men, 561 women, and 380 children. These tourists traveled in 284 vehicles and 16 motorbikes. They were heading towards Gangtok.

Coordinated Relief Efforts Praised

Mangan District Collector Anant Jain led the evacuation operation. He credited the coordinated response by local authorities and the army. BRO, ITBP, and forest officials also contributed significantly. Community organizations like Lachung Dzumsa, TAAS, SHRA, and the Drivers’ Association played key roles.

“This effort was made possible through the tireless work of all agencies. The local community showed resilience,” Jain said.

Infrastructure Damage Due to Extreme Weather

The region has been dealing with the aftermath of a cloudburst on May 30. This event triggered more than 130 mm of rainfall in a short span. This led to widespread landslides and road damage along several routes including Dikchu–Sanklang–Shipgyere and the Chungthang-Lachen-Zeema corridor in Sikkim. Two key bridges also sustained partial damage, further complicating mobility and relief efforts.

Alternate Access and Helipad Plans Under Review

Authorities are now exploring alternative foot routes and the possibility of deploying helicopters, weather permitting, to support ongoing operations. These measures aim to ensure continued access for relief personnel and to expedite the search for the remaining missing soldiers.

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