Around 200 tourists were left stranded in Chungthang in North Sikkim after heavy rainfall triggered multiple landslides, disrupting road connectivity in the region.

The landslides occurred on Tuesday night along the Chungthang–Lachen route, halting the movement of tourists heading towards Lachen. Officials said stranded visitors were given shelter at an ITBP camp and a gurudwara in Chungthang.

Rescue, restoration work underway

Authorities have started restoration work, with the Border Roads Organisation (BRO) working to clear the affected routes. Officials said travel will be allowed only after roads are declared safe, depending on weather conditions.

Some tourists have already returned to Gangtok and cancelled their plans.

ALSO READ | 'Illegal and politically motivated': After decades at Akbar Road, Congress faces eviction deadline

Weather concerns continue in region

The road to Lachung, which was also blocked earlier, has now been cleared, and tourists have been safely sent back to Gangtok. However, intermittent rainfall continues, and the situation is being closely monitored.

The Lachen route had only recently reopened on March 9 after being damaged in the 2023 glacial lake outburst flood (GLOF). Meanwhile, popular tourist spots like Tsomgo Lake and Nathula remain closed due to heavy snowfall.

The Sikkim administration is keeping a close watch on the entire situation. The weather department has informed that there is a strong possibility of scattered rainfall and snowfall in Sikkim's mountainous areas over the next few days.