Sikkim: Nine dead, 1,200 tourists stranded for last three days due to landslides

Gangtok, June 14: Sikkim Chief Secretary Vijay Bhushan Pathak on Friday said nine persons had died in the last three days due to two landslides in the state. More than 1,200 tourists were also stranded in Mangan district of the state.

“In the past three days, Sikkim has witnessed two natural calamities: a landslide in Namchi district in which three persons lost their lives, and similarly, a landslide on the intervening nights of June 12 and 13 in Mangan district in which six persons lost their lives,” the Chief Secretary said in a press conference on Friday.

“It is expected that around 1,200-1,400 tourists are struck in Mangan district in Sikkim. The restoration of road communication may take five to seven days, ” he added.

Pathak said they had sent a requisition for Air Force helicopters for the evacuation of tourists. “We have sent the requisition for Air Force helicopters on behalf of the Sikkim government. As soon as the weather becomes suitable for flying, the evacuation of tourists will start,” he said.

“Gratuitous relief is being given to the families of deceased . For those who are severely injured, their treatment is going on in hospitals,” the Chief Secretary added.