Around 1,500 tourists remain stranded in Lachen in Sikkim’s Mangan district after a road breach near Tarum Chu Bridge forced authorities to close the Lachen route. Officials have launched evacuation operations using an alternative high-altitude route via Dongkya La Pass. Teams from multiple agencies are working together to clear snow and restore connectivity.
Authorities have advised tourists to stay indoors and follow safety instructions. The incident highlights recurring disruptions in the region due to harsh weather and landslides.
Read More: Alarming Forecast Meghalaya Summer rainfall – Borok Times
Key Facts
- Location: Lachen, Mangan district, Sikkim
- Tourists Stranded: Around 1,500
- Vehicles Affected: 169 vehicles and 79 motorcycles
- Cause: Road breach near Tarum Chu Bridge
- Alternative Route: Dongkya La Pass (over 17,000 feet)
- Authorities Involved: District administration, police, ITBP, BRO, Indian Army
- Status: Evacuation and snow clearance operations ongoing
Road Breach Disrupts Connectivity
A road breach near Tarum Chu Bridge has disrupted travel to Lachen, leaving around 1,500 tourists stranded. The sudden closure of the route created logistical challenges for both visitors and local authorities.
Moreover, the situation affected 169 vehicles and 79 motorcycles. As a result, officials acted quickly to assess the damage and plan evacuation measures.
Evacuation Operations Begin
District Collector Anant Jain confirmed that evacuation operations started on Monday. Authorities coordinated efforts to move stranded tourists safely out of the affected area.
Since the Lachen–Chungthang road remains blocked, officials have activated an alternative route. They are now guiding tourists through the high-altitude Dongkya La Pass toward Lachung and Gangtok.
High-Altitude Route Poses Challenges
The Dongkya La Pass, located at over 17,000 feet, presents significant challenges due to extreme weather conditions. However, teams are working continuously to make the route operational.
Snow clearance operations are currently underway. Therefore, authorities expect gradual movement once conditions improve and safety measures are in place.
Multi-Agency Effort to Restore Access
The Mangan district administration has deployed multiple agencies to handle the crisis. Teams from the Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP), Border Roads Organisation (BRO), and the Indian Army are actively involved.
Furthermore, these agencies are clearing roads and assisting stranded tourists across Lachen, Dongkya La, Lachung, and nearby areas. Their coordinated effort is crucial for restoring connectivity.
Government Issues Safety Advisory
The state government has urged tourists and residents to remain indoors and avoid unnecessary movement. Officials have also asked people to follow all safety guidelines issued by authorities.
In addition, road-clearing agencies are working to remove snow and debris as quickly as possible. This step aims to restore normal traffic movement in the region.
Recent Similar Incident Raises Concern
This is not the first such disruption in the region. On March 25, heavy rainfall triggered landslides that stranded 150 to 200 tourists in Chungthang.
Therefore, recurring incidents highlight the vulnerability of mountain roads in Sikkim, especially during adverse weather conditions.
Question & Answer Section
Q1: What caused tourists to be stranded in Lachen?
A road breach near Tarum Chu Bridge led to the closure of the Lachen route.
Q2: How many tourists are affected?
Around 1,500 tourists are currently stranded.
Q3: What alternative route is being used?
Authorities are using the Dongkya La Pass route for evacuation.
Q4: Which agencies are involved in the operation?
Police, ITBP, BRO, and the Indian Army are assisting in rescue and clearance work.
Q5: What precautions have authorities advised?
Officials have advised people to stay indoors and follow safety instructions.
Location Context
Sikkim, located in Northeast India, is known for its mountainous terrain and strategic border areas. However, frequent landslides and harsh weather often disrupt connectivity, making disaster response and infrastructure management critical.
Also Read: Big ECI Bye Elections Announcement 2026 Across Six States – Prime 24 Seven