State disaster management team and local police are involved in the search and rescue mission. Photo: Special Arrangement
Seven people were killed, while seven others have been rescued after 5 to 6 vehicles and around 30 tourists were hit by an avalanche at Nathu La in East Sikkim on April 4 morning. Search and rescue efforts are underway.
“At about 11.30 a.m., a massive avalanche hit the Gangtok-Natu La road near MS 15. Approximately 5-6 vehicles along with 20-30 tourists on way to Natu La are feared to have been stuck under the snow,” Defence officials said. “By 3 p.m., 14 persons were rescued and taken to nearby Army medical facility. However, seven persons succumbed.”
Seven persons were administered first aid and returned to Gangtok, officials said. Photo: Special Arrangement
The other seven persons were administered first aid and returned to Gangtok, officials said. Army, State disaster management team and local police are involved in the search and rescue mission.
The road has since been opened for traffic by Border Roads Organisation (BRO).