Relentless Search On as Army, Air Force Lead Rescue Ops in Landslide-Hit North Sikkim
GG News Bureau
Chaten, North Sikkim, 4th May: As North Sikkim grapples with the aftermath of a devastating landslide, the Indian Army has launched a massive rescue and search operation to trace six missing individuals, including Army officers, their families, and soldiers. The landslide, which struck the Chaten region, has left a trail of destruction, severing communication and road links to remote areas.
Despite treacherous weather, unstable terrain, and high-altitude challenges, Army teams are pressing on with unwavering resolve. Among the missing are Lieutenant Colonel Pritpal Singh Sandhu, his wife Squadron Leader Aarti Sandhu (Retd), their daughter Amayra Sandhu, and soldiers Subedar Dharamveer, Naik Sunilal Muchahary, and Sepoy Sainudheen PK. Specialised rescue teams with engineering equipment are working around the clock to locate them.
Meanwhile, Lachen village, a key tourist destination, remains cut off. The Army has managed to establish foot access and has reached out to 113 stranded tourists, who are expected to be airlifted shortly. On Tuesday, 34 tourists, including two US nationals, were rescued by Air Force helicopters and brought to safety at Pakyong Airport. Among the evacuees were also injured Army personnel and their families, now receiving medical care.
The Indian Air Force and National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) are jointly leading Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) operations. The first helicopter sortie carried 30 NDRF personnel equipped with satellite phones and emergency gear to bolster rescue efforts.
Sikkim Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang convened a high-level review meeting and issued urgent directives for all government departments to act swiftly in coordination with NDRF, SDRF, BRO, and local agencies.
“This is truly heartbreaking,” said the Chief Minister. “Our people are suffering immense hardship. We are doing everything in our power to reach the affected and restore normalcy. I appeal for calm, patience, and unity as we navigate this crisis together.”
In a message of solidarity and reassurance, he added, “We stand with every family and every individual. Your safety is our top priority, and we will not rest until everyone is accounted for.”
The Army reaffirmed its commitment to the mission, stating, “Every life matters. We will continue our efforts with full dedication until all missing are found and every stranded person is brought to safety.”
