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.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi condoled deaths and wished speedy recover to injured.
“Distressed by the avalanche in Sikkim. Condolences to those who have lost their loved ones. I hope the injured recover soon. Rescue ops are underway and all possible assistance is being provided to those affected,” PMO tweeted quoting the PM.
Expressing condolences, Union Home Minister Amit Shah said that his ministry is closely monitoring the situation.
“My sincerest condolences to the families of those who have lost their lives in the tragic avalanche in Sikkim. We are closely monitoring the situation and the teams of NDRF will reach the affected area soon. I pray for the speedy recovery of those injured,” Shah tweeted.
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh expressed condolences over the incident.
“Saddened by the loss of precious lives due to an avalanche in East Sikkim. Search and Rescue Ops are being carried out by the Indian Army, SDRF and other agencies. My deepest condolences to the bereaved families. Praying for the speedy recovery of the injured,” he tweeted.
“Rescue and clearance operations are still on,” a senior police official here said. Teams of Sikkim Police and Indian Army are involved in the rescue operations.
Border Roads Organisation (BRO) also launched a rescue operation in the area. As many as 22 tourists have been rescued till now including six from deep valley and shifted to near by hospitals.
The avalanche occurred around 11:10 am near the 15th milestone on Jawaharlal Nehru Marg. Meanwhile, the road has been opened for traffic by the BRO.
Nathula Pass is situated on the border with China and is a major tourist destination because of its scenic beauty.
Some 350 people and 80 vehicles, which were stranded on the road because of the snow blocking the road from Nathu La, were also brought back, officials said.
Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge also expressed grief and said he has utmost faith in the rescue teams involved in saving lives.
West Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee said she is deeply pained by the tragic incident in Sikkim. “I offer my sincerest condolences to the bereaved families and pray for the speedy recovery of those who were injured. Praying for the safety and security of all,” she said in a tweet.
(With inputs from agencies)