Sikkim Landslide Horror: Army Camp Wiped Out, Rescue Teams Race To Save 6 Missing

A devastating landslide triggered by heavy and continuous rainfall struck a military camp in Chhaten, near Lachen in North Sikkim's Mangan district, on Sunday evening, claiming the lives of three army personnel and leaving six others missing. The incident occurred around 7 p.m., according to officials from the Indian Army and the Defence Ministry.

The landslide, caused by relentless downpours over the past several days, swept through the army installation in the remote region, complicating rescue efforts due to difficult terrain and ongoing weather challenges.

In an official statement released on Monday, the army identified the deceased as Havaldar Lakhwinder Singh, Lance Naik Munish Thakur, and porter Abhishek Lakhada. Their bodies have been recovered. Additionally, four personnel were rescued with minor injuries.

"Rescue teams are working round-the-clock under extremely challenging conditions to locate the six missing individuals," the statement added.

The army has extended its condolences to the bereaved families and assured them of all necessary assistance and support.

Wider Impact in North Sikkim

The region has been reeling under heavy rainfall, leading to multiple landslides and widespread disruption. Many areas in North Sikkim remain cut off due to blocked roads and damaged infrastructure.

Amid this crisis, nearly 1,600 tourists stranded in Lachung since May 30 were safely evacuated by rescue teams. However, around 150 tourists remain stranded in Lachen, though officials have confirmed that they are safe and being looked after in hotels, with personnel from the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) present on-site.

The situation remains tense as rescue operations continue in adverse weather conditions. Authorities are monitoring the region closely due to the risk of further landslides.

With ANI Inputs