Sikkim landslides: Nine dead in two days, hundreds of tourists stranded

Gangtok: Sikkim has been struck by two devastating landslides in the past three days, resulting in the tragic loss of nine lives and leaving numerous tourists stranded.

Sikkim chief secretary Vijay Bhushan Pathak provided a comprehensive update on the situation, detailing the ongoing relief and evacuation efforts.

"In the last three days, Sikkim has witnessed two natural calamities: a landslide in Namchi district in which three people lost their lives, and another in Mangan district where six people have perished," Pathak stated.

He assured that gratuitous relief is being provided to the families of the deceased and that the severely injured are receiving treatment in hospitals.

The combined death toll from the landslides in Namchi and Mangan districts of Sikkim stands at nine.

"A total of nine people have lost their lives, including both Namchi and Mangan districts," Pathak confirmed.

The landslides have severely disrupted travel and tourism in the region, with a significant number of tourists trapped in affected areas, particularly in Lachung.

"We estimate that around 1200 to 1400 tourists are stuck in Lachung. Due to landslides in multiple locations, it will take us 5-7 days to restore road communication. We have requested helicopters, and as soon as the weather is suitable for flying, we will start evacuating tourists," Pathak explained.

The Sikkim government has prioritised restoration of road communication, which has been severely impacted, making ground transportation nearly impossible in some areas.