Army launches Op Him Setu to rescue tourists in Sikkim

The Indian Army’s Trishakti Corps has launched ‘Operation Him Setu’ to rescue approximately 1,000 tourists stranded in Lachen, North Sikkim, after massive landslides snapped road connectivity with Chungthang.

Braving severe weather and heavy snowfall, troops have activated alternate routes and cleared critical passes to facilitate evacuation. Working in close coordination with the Border Roads Organisation (BRO), the Army is undertaking continuous snow removal and road restoration under hazardous terrain conditions.

So far, 135 tourists have been safely moved to secure locations, along with 32 light vehicles and 10 motorcycles. Army trucks were utilised to tow civilian vehicles across steep, snowbound stretches. Medical teams have been deployed to provide immediate aid to those in distress.

“Our foremost priority is the safety and well-being of every citizen. Our teams remain committed to providing all necessary assistance,” a senior Army official stated.

While 1,000 tourists remain in Lachen, officials confirmed that evacuation is being conducted in phases as conditions permit. The situation is being monitored closely alongside the civil administration.