At least seven tourists were killed and 12 others injured in a major avalanche in Sikkim’s Nathula area on Tuesday. As many as 20 people have been rescued so far. “By 3 PM, 14 persons were rescued and taken to nearby Army medical facility. However, seven persons succumbed. The other seven persons were administered first aid and returned to Gangtok,” Indian Army said.
The District Magistrate of Gangtok informed that rescue operations have been called off and there is no more requirement of the NDRF. He said that twelve injured are undergoing treatment.
The ongoing rescue operation to save the people stuck under the snow after a massive avalanche hit Sikkim’s Tsongmo, near Nathula Pass, was paused on Tuesday night and will be resumed on Wednesday in morning. As of now, seven people lost their lives due to the catastrophe and several are feared to be trapped inside snow.
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Expressing grief over the tragic death of tourists, S Jaishankar called the news of the catastrophic avalanche in Sikkim to be distressing and he wished speedy recovery to the other injured people.
“The news of deaths and injuries due to catastrophic avalanche in Sikkim is deeply distressing. Condolences to the bereaved families. Wish the injured a speedy recovery,” tweeted S Jaishankar.
The weather condition in the area continues to be harsh and unfavourable for rescue operation. This is the main reason why the rescue operation was paused. In the morning another rescue operation will be carried out by NDRF team from Pakyong station on Wednesday morning.
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