Indian Army rescues 500 tourists stranded in North Sikkim

GANGTOK,: The Indian Army on Friday rescued 500 tourists who were travelling to Lachung and Lachen valley but were left stranded at Chungthang due to landslides and road blocks. Heavy torrential rains were witnessed in Lachen, Lachung and Chungthang.

On request from Chungthang SDM, troops of Trishakti Corps, Indian Army swung into action and rescued the stranded tourists to safety. The stranded tourists including 216 male, 113 female and 54 children, were moved to three different army camps and were provided with hot meals and warm clothing. The troops vacated their barracks to accommodate the tourists and make them comfortable for the night, informs a press release.

Three medical teams were formed who checked all the tourists. Initial medical check by Army medical team found all tourists to be stable. However, at around midnight, one lady who had visited Gurudogmar Lake during the day complained of severe headache and dizziness. The medical team including lady medical officer from nearby field hospital rushed to the location and detected signs of Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS). She was provided immediate medical care and was shifted to the ICU in the medical hospital. By morning, she was stable. 

“The quick reaction by the troops avoided any mishap and ensured comfort for the stranded tourists. Efforts are on, to clear the road for vehicular movement as soon as possible. The tourists will be provided with all assistance until the route is cleared for their further journey,” the release adds.