Sikkim Begins Evacuating Stranded Tourists From Lachen After Road Breach

Overview

• Authorities say around 1,500 tourists are stuck in Lachen after a breach near the Tarum Chu bridge cut the Lachen–Chungthang road, and the evacuation has begun.
• The usual route remains blocked, so teams are moving people via the Dongkya La pass at over 17,000 feet toward Lachung and Gangtok as crews clear deep snow.
• The Mangan district administration is running a joint operation with local police, the ITBP, the Border Roads Organisation, and the Indian Army to open a safe corridor.
• Officials say movement will depend on real-time checks of weather and road safety, with the IMD warning of moderate rain now and heavier rain and snow on April 9 and 10.
• People in the area have been told to stay indoors until escorted, and helplines have been shared for assistance at +91 9907956705 and 03592 281007.