Gangtok, June 17: Over 2,000 domestic and foreign tourists found themselves stranded in North Sikkim after a landslide caused by a flash flood blocked the road from Mangan to Chungthang. The affected tourists, including individuals from countries like Bangladesh, the United States, and Singapore, were unable to continue their journey due to the disruption in vehicular traffic.
A total of 1,975 domestic tourists and 36 foreign tourists were stuck in hotels located in the picturesque areas of Lachen and Lachung. These locations serve as gateways to various scenic destinations in North Sikkim, making them popular among travelers seeking natural beauty.
Among the foreign tourists, 23 were from Bangladesh, 10 from the United States, and three from Singapore. With limited access to transportation, these tourists faced difficulties in continuing their travel plans and were left waiting for the situation to improve.
The consequences of the flash flood extended beyond stranded tourists. A significant number of vehicles, including 345 cars and 11 motorbikes, were also stuck at different points in North Sikkim due to the roadblock.
The disrupted transportation system not only hindered the movement of tourists but also affected the local residents and their daily activities. The authorities understood the urgency of clearing the roads for both the safety of the stranded individuals and the restoration of normalcy in the region.
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Efforts to clear the blocked road commenced as soon as the rain subsided. The local administration and rescue teams were working tirelessly to remove the debris caused by the landslide and restore vehicular connectivity.
However, the road clearance work was contingent upon weather conditions and the stabilization of the affected area. Safety remained a top priority during the clearance operations to prevent any untoward incidents.
Meanwhile, the stranded tourists were being provided with necessary assistance and support. Local authorities coordinated with hotels and service providers to ensure that the visitors were adequately cared for during the unexpected delay.
Additionally, regular updates were being provided to the tourists regarding the progress of the road clearance efforts and the anticipated timeline for the resumption of normal travel.
The unfortunate occurrence of a flash flood and subsequent landslide in North Sikkim led to the stranding of over 2,000 tourists, both domestic and foreign. While the road clearance work was underway, authorities focused on providing necessary support to the stranded individuals.
The incident serves as a reminder of the unpredictable nature of natural disasters and the importance of preparedness and prompt response in such situations.
