Indian Army’s Trishakti Corps has launched Operation ‘Him Setu’ to evacuate stranded tourists in Lachen, North Sikkim with 135 tourists safely evacuated, along with 32 light vehicles and 10 motorcycles, official sources said on Thursday morning. Evacuation is being conducted in phases. Approximately 1,000 tourists remain in Lachen, with sustained efforts underway to ensure their safe evacuation at the earliest. An Army official stated, “Our foremost priority is the safety and well-being of every citizen. Our teams remain committed to providing all necessary assistance on the ground.” The situation continues to be closely monitored.
Army vehicles were employed for towing civilian vehicles across steep and snowbound stretches. Medical emergencies and citizens requiring assistance have been evacuated promptly.
Notably, a landslide had disrupted road connectivity between Lachen and Chungthang in North Sikkim, impacting movement in the region. “Responding swiftly, the Trishakti Corps under Eastern Command, Indian Army launched Operation Him Setu to restore access and assist stranded tourists. Despite severe weather and heavy snowfall, troops have opened critical passes and activated alternate routes to enable evacuation,” a statement from the Defense PRO in Guwahati said. “The Border Roads Organization (BRO) is working in close coordination with troops of Trishakti Corps, undertaking continuous road clearance, snow removal and restoration of connectivity under challenging weather and terrain conditions,” it said.“The Indian Army is working in close coordination with the civil administration, providing on-ground assistance, medical aid and facilitating de-induction as conditions permit,” it added.