Landslide traps nearly 200 tourists in North Sikkim, blocks Chungthang–Lachen route

Nearly 200 tourists were stranded in Chungthang in North Sikkim after multiple landslides, triggered by heavy rainfall, disrupted road connectivity in the region. The landslides occurred along the crucial Chungthang–Lachen route on Tuesday night, leaving travellers heading towards Lachen stuck midway.

Authorities arranged emergency accommodation for the stranded tourists at an ITBP camp and a gurudwara in Chungthang. Officials said restoration work is currently underway, with the Border Roads Organisation working to clear debris and restore connectivity. Movement will resume only after the route is declared safe, depending on weather conditions.

Meanwhile, some tourists chose to return to Gangtok and cancel their travel plans amid uncertainty. The road to Lachung, which was also blocked due to landslides, has now been cleared, allowing tourists from that side to safely head back.

The situation continues to be closely monitored as intermittent rainfall persists in the region. Notably, the Chungthang–Lachen route had only recently reopened earlier this month after being damaged in a previous disaster, adding to concerns over recurring disruptions in the area.