The Indian Army successfully rescued 1,321 stranded tourists and 84 locals from North Sikkim following road disruptions caused by landslides. The evacuation operation, named ‘Operation Him Setu,’ in the Lachen area was completed within 48 hours under challenging weather conditions.
Lieutenant Colonel Mahendra Rawat, a Defence Spokesman, highlighted the incident-free and coordinated evacuation process. The operation restored connectivity through the construction of a footbridge, ensuring safe passage for evacuees affected by the Lachen-Chungthang road damage. Reception centers were established to provide essential support like food, shelter, and medical assistance.
Despite heavy snowfall and adverse weather, the Indian Army’s Trishakti Corps, in collaboration with civil authorities and the Border Roads Organisation, cleared critical mountain passes and created alternate routes for the evacuation. Troops also facilitated the safe movement of evacuees by constructing temporary bridges and safe crossing points in the region.
