Safe evacuation of tourists from Lachung; first batches reach Phidang

The evacuation of tourists from Lachung began early this morning and the first batch of vehicles has successfully reached Phidang in Lower Dzongu. The initial convoy, consisting of 18 tourist vehicles, arrived safely, marking a significant step in the large-scale effort to bring tourists back from the area.

District Collector of Mangan, Anant Jain, personally led the convoy to ensure the smooth and safe transportation of all tourists. His hands-on involvement reflects the administration’s commitment to the safety and well-being of visitors.

The operation to evacuate tourists was a combined effort involving several departments and local groups. The local administration worked closely with the police, Army, Border Roads Organisation (BRO), Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP), Forest Department, Lachung Dzumsa (local village council), Tourism Associations including TAAS and SHRA, Drivers’ Associations, and other local tourism stakeholders. The community also played an important role in supporting the evacuation process.

As per the latest update, the tourist convoy includes 284 vehicles and 16 bikes carrying 1,678 tourists. Among them, 737 are males, 561 females, and 380 children. They have successfully crossed the Theng Check Post and are on their way to Phidang.

Jain expressed his appreciation for everyone involved, highlighting the teamwork and dedication that made the evacuation possible. He assured that all tourists currently in Lachung would be safely transported back today through the route Lachung - Chungthang - Siphgyer - Phidang, before proceeding onwards to Gangtok.

Moreover, efforts to restore road connectivity to Lachen are ongoing. Once the road is repaired and safe to travel, the tourists stranded there will also be evacuated without delay.