Massive Avalanche Hits Sikkim's Nathu La Border Area, 7 Tourists Killed

District administration of Gantok has called off the rescue operation after another slide incident occurred at the same location.

Image credit: IANS

New Delhi: A massive avalanche occurred in Sikkim's Nathu La border area on Tuesday morning. The tragedy killed seven tourists, while 11 got injured in the incident. Several tourists are still feared trapped under the snow.

According to a PTI report, the injured are being taken to a hospital in state capital Gangtok. "Rescue and clearance operations are still on," PTI quoted a senior police official as saying. Nathula Pass is situated on the border with China and is a major tourist attraction because of its scenic beauty.

#WATCH | Troops of Trishakti Corps, Indian Army undertake a rescue mission at Gangtok-Natu La road near Milestone 15 in Sikkim where an avalanche struck, claiming seven lives.

Seven others were administered first aid and returned to Gangtok. The road has been opened for traffic… pic.twitter.com/oCseR3HVKW

— ANI (@ANI) April 4, 2023

Some 350 people and 80 vehicles are stranded on the road because of the snow blocking the road from Nathu La, were also brought back, officials said, reported PTI.

Meanwhile, Union Home Minister Amit Shah said the Centre was closely monitoring the situation, and the teams of the NDRF will reach the area -- between Milestones 13 and 17 -- soon. "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," he tweeted.

Citing the Indian army official new agency ANI reported that the District Administration has called off all the rescue operations for now as there was one more slide reported at the same location at 5.35 pm on Gangtok- Nathu La road and snowfall had also started in the area making the operation dangerous.

Gangtok DM has informed that there is no more requirement of the NDRF team as the rescue operation has been called off due to snowfall and another slide incident and details of recovered tourists will be shared later, reported ANI citing NDRF official.