All Stranded Tourists Safely Evacuated from Lachen; Heavy Snowfall Blocks Roads in Gnathang

KalimNews, April 28, 2025 : In a remarkable demonstration of coordination and commitment, all tourists who were stranded in Lachen have been safely evacuated and reached Gangtok by Sunday night, April 27, 2025. The joint efforts of the Mangan District Administration and the Indian Army ensured the smooth and secure movement of visitors amid challenging weather and terrain conditions caused by multiple landslides.

The usual 48-kilometre route from Lachen to Lachung was rendered inaccessible due to landslides and was under repair and restoration. Given the circumstances, authorities undertook an alternative route via Dongkha La, situated at an altitude of 18,152 feet near Gurudongmar. The tourists, which included bikers and other travellers, were accompanied by trained guides, escorts, ambulances, and essential medical equipment to address high-altitude health concerns.

The evacuation route covered approximately 75 kilometres from Lachen through Thangu to Dongkha La, followed by another 60 kilometres crossing Yumesodong and Yumthang en route to Lachung. From there, the journey continued through Chungthang and Mangan, finally concluding in Gangtok. The operation began early on Sunday morning and continued throughout the day, ensuring safe travel through high-altitude and remote regions.

According to the latest update from the Sub-Divisional Magistrate of Chungthang, a total of 126 tourist vehicles, including two-wheelers, departed Lachen in the morning via the alternate route. The journey to Mangan or Sangkalang typically takes no less than nine hours. Most vehicles successfully crossed Chungthang and proceeded toward their respective destinations through the Sangkalang.

With this successful evacuation, all tourists who had been staying in Lachen amid the disruption have now been safely relocated.

Meanwhile, heavy snowfall in Gnathang has led to the blockage of all roads connecting to Gangtok and Reshi. As a result, tourists in the Gnathang area are currently stranded, and local authorities are monitoring the situation closely to ensure their safety and arrange further assistance.