The evacuation of stranded tourists from Chaten in North Sikkim was suspended today due to sudden worsening of weather conditions. Two MI-17V5 helicopters had been deployed from Pakyong Airport for the operation. One chopper successfully airlifted 39 tourists, while the other evacuated 20, including two foreign nationals. However, poor visibility and deteriorating flight conditions forced authorities to call off further operations for the day.
Superintendent of Police (Mangan), Sonam Dichu Bhutia, confirmed that 63 tourists still remain stranded in the high-altitude region. The evacuation will resume as soon as weather conditions improve, officials said. The tourists have been provided with food and medical assistance and are reported to be safe.
The rescue effort comes in the wake of a recent landslide in the region that disrupted road connectivity and triggered emergency responses.
