The Indian Air Force (IAF) on June 6 launched a vital aerial relief and evacuation operation in North Sikkim, airlifting 44 stranded individuals from the landslide-affected area of Chaten and delivering over a tonne of essential supplies.
Using an MI-17 helicopter, the IAF carried out sorties from Pakyong Greenfield Airport, transporting 1,300 kg of relief materials and five officials from the Food and Civil Supplies Department to the cut-off region. Among the evacuees were 17 local residents. Officials confirmed that the aerial mission also supports the rotation and redeployment of army personnel, aiding on-ground operations amid ongoing disruptions caused by heavy rainfall.
“The rescue efforts resumed early morning with helicopters airlifting those stranded due to landslides. A total of 44 people have been safely evacuated,” said a state disaster management official. Landslides triggered by incessant rain have severely impacted road connectivity in North Sikkim, making aerial operations the only viable lifeline for affected communities. With the successful completion of this phase, authorities are now focusing on restoring ground connectivity and continuing relief efforts.