7 tourists killed in Sikkim avalanche; 350 rescued

Gangtok, April 4 (IANS) At least seven tourists were killed on Tuesday in Sikkim after a massive avalanche hit a section of National Highway 310, an official said.

The Border Roads Organisation (BRO) has managed to rescue at least 350 tourists stranded in the affected area after they were stuck due to the avalanche, defence sources said.

Home Minister Amit Shah and PM Narendra Modi both expressed their grief over the tragedy.

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.

— Amit Shah (@AmitShah) April 4, 2023

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: PM @narendramodi

— PMO India (@PMOIndia) April 4, 2023

Defence spokesperson Lt. Col Mahendra Rawat said the avalanche hit the Gangtok-Natu La Jawahar Lal Nehru Marg on National Highway 310.

He said that around 30 tourists travelling in 5-6 vehicles on their way to Natu La were buried beneath the snow.

Troopers of Trishakti Corps of the Indian Army and BRO personnel under 'Project Swastik' swung into action immediately, and launched an all-out rescue mission.

A total of 23 people, including six from a deep valley, have been pulled out alive. They have been shifted to the nearby medical facilities of the Indian Army.

"Unfortunately, seven tourists have died. Search and rescue missions are underway by the Army, State Disaster Management team and police," Lt. Col. Rawat said.

So far, 350 stranded tourists travelling in 80 vehicles have been rescued after clearing the snow from the road.

Rescue operations are currently underway.

Further details are awaited.