DRF SSB teams intensify search operations for missing tourist in West Sikkim

PTI, May 01, Gangtok  :  Teams of the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), Sashastra Seema Bal (SSB), and Sikkim Police have intensified the search and rescue operations for a tourist who went missing while trekking along the Goechala route in West Sikkim's Gyalshing district, officials said on Thursday.

   

The missing tourist, identified as Sandeepan Roy (31) of West Bengal went missing on April 21, they said.

Roy had embarked on a trek on April 19 with six fellow tourists and a guide. On the evening of April 21 upon reaching near Tahgshing the group discovered that Roy was missing.

Initially, the search operations were carried out by police personnel, local volunteers and forest department officials.

Now teams of the NDRF, SSB, and Sikkim Police are engaged in the search operations for the missing tourist.

Given the remote and challenging nature of the terrain, the teams have been equipped with satellite phones and VHF wireless sets to ensure continuous communication.

The entire operation is being closely supervised by the Superintendent of Police, Gyalshing district, Tshering Sherpa, officials added. 

Sikkim Chronicle : A high-altitude search and rescue operation is underway in West Sikkim’s Thangshing region after a 31-year-old tourist, Sandeepan Roy from Darjeeling, went missing during a trek on the Goechala route.

Roy, who began the trek from Yuksam on April 19 with six other tourists and a guide, was reported missing on April 21 near Thangshing. Initial efforts by the group failed to locate him, and poor connectivity delayed the alert to authorities.

A multi-agency rescue team, including personnel from Sikkim Police, Forest Department, and local volunteers, has been conducting ground searches since April 23. Despite the ongoing efforts, Roy remains untraced.

On April 30, fresh reinforcements comprising SSB jawans, NDRF personnel, police, and logistical support including yaks and porters, were dispatched to intensify the operation. A reserve team of 12 SSB jawans is stationed at Yuksam for emergency response.

The operation is being closely monitored by Gyalshing SP Tshering Sherpa. Satellite phones and VHF sets are being used to overcome terrain and communication challenges. Authorities remain committed to tracing the missing tourist. Further updates will follow as developments occur.

(https://www.facebook.com/thesikkimchronicle/photos/a-high-altitude-search-and-rescue-operation-is-underway-in-west-sikkims-thangshi/1086564250185009/?_rdr)