NewzVile Desk
Continuous Heavy rains and landslides in Sikkim have disrupted relief efforts, delaying evacuation operations. Rescue teams resumed work on Thursday after a brief halt, focusing on evacuating stranded tourists from the remote Chaten area amid challenging weather conditions.
Two MI-17 helicopters airlifted 39 tourists from Chaten to Pakyong Greenfield Airport in the first evacuation batch. Additionally, four passengers were rescued using a Cheetah helicopter, marking progress in the ongoing rescue operation in the rain-affected region.
To facilitate onward travel, the Sikkim government arranged buses to transport evacuated tourists from Pakyong to Siliguri. These measures aim to ensure smooth transit and safety for those affected by the landslides and heavy rains in the northeastern state.
An MI-17 helicopter remains on standby to assist in further airlifts to Bagdogra, providing critical support for ongoing evacuation efforts. Authorities remain vigilant, ensuring that stranded tourists receive timely and secure transport out of the affected areas.