Indian Army rescues over 2,500 stranded tourists in Sikkim

The tourists were returning from the India-China border in Sikkim, said officials. They were on their way back from Nathu La pass and Tsomgo (Changu) Lake on Friday evening when snowfall engulfed the region and blocked road.

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Indian Army rescues over 2,500 stranded tourists in Sikkim
As the situation stands, no tourist vehicles will be allowed to pass on Jawahar Lal Nehru Road on the way to the border region. (Photo: PTI)

In a major operation, the Indian Army has rescued more than 2,500 tourists stranded near East Sikkim's 17th Mile area, close to the India-China border, due to heavy snowfall.

The tourists were returning from the India-China border in Sikkim, said officials. They were on their way back from Nathu La pass and Tsomgo (Changu) Lake on Friday evening when snowfall covered the region and blocked roads.

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More than 300-400 civilian vehicles were stranded at various points on the Jawahar Lal Nehru Road, said East Sikkim District Magistrate Kapil Meena.

He added that the Army immediately acted and rescued the tourists from what could have turned into a difficult situation. All the rescued tourists were brought to a camp in 17th Mile area where they were served food and medicines.

Arrangements were also made to transfer the tourists to the state capital.

An additional army doctor was also called to provide immediate medical relief to those who required attention in the high altitude area.

Read: Leh, Kargil experience coldest night of season

"Indian Army rescued more than 2500 civilians stuck in more than 400 vehicles around Nathula, Sikkim due to heavy snowfall. All were provided food, shelter & medical care last night," the Army tweeted Saturday.

As the situation stands, no tourist vehicles will be allowed to pass on Jawahar Lal Nehru Road on the way to the border region, said the district magistrate, adding that operations were underway to clear snow and restore connectivity.