Trekker Dies of Suspected High-Altitude Illness on Goechala Route in West Sikkim

A 38-year-old trekker, Shri Suman Debnath, Superintendent of CGST & Customs, West Bengal, died during the Goechala trekking expedition in West Sikkim late on 18 November 2025. The group was ascending the high-altitude trail when Debnath reportedly developed a severe headache, nausea, extreme fatigue and breathlessness.

Despite assistance from fellow trekkers, his condition worsened rapidly. He lost consciousness and passed away around 2105 hours at Phedang, a high-altitude point approximately 25 km from Yuksom.

Upon receiving the alert, rescue personnel and porters were immediately mobilised. Due to challenging terrain and altitude, retrieving the body required nearly a full day. The mortal remains were transported to Yuksom and later to Gyalshing District Hospital, where an inquest and autopsy were conducted as per legal procedures.

The body has been handed over to the family for transportation to West Bengal.

Preliminary assessment suggests high-altitude medical complications, though a UD case has been registered. Authorities are conducting a detailed investigation to determine the exact cause of death and verify all circumstances surrounding the incident.