SIKKIM: More than 1,000 tourists, including women and children, were rescued by the Army from Chhangu in East Sikkim's upper reaches after being left stranded by heavy snowfall, officials  said. On Wednesday afternoon, there was heavy snowfall in the Natu La, Tsomgo (Chhangu) Lake, and surrounding areas, which caused the temperature to drop below zero and hampered transport.

Some 1,000 people and 200 vehicles  were stopped over a 15 kilometre area as driving had become unsafe due to the snow accumulation, they added.  During an over eight-hour operation, the tourists were moved to safety, according to an official release from the Army forces stationed in the area. "All the tourists have been provided with accommodation, hot meals, warm clothing and medical support," it said. 

The road opening work was started on March 12 in the morning with the aid of GREF dozers. According to the report, the route was open by 9 am, allowing vehicles to travel to Gangtok.

According to the statement, the forces' swift response brought relief and comfort to the trapped visitors during bad weather and ensured that the road was cleared early to allow for the flow of vehicles to Gangtok. Tourists who were stranded and Sikkim's civil authority expressed their gratitude for the Army's prompt assistance, the report stated.

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