Sonam Norgay Lachungpa appointed chairperson of Sikkim Tourism and Civil Aviation Department, expresses gratitude for successful tourist evacuation

Sonam Norgay Lachungpa has been appointed as the new Chairperson of the Sikkim Tourism and Civil Aviation Department. Widely known for his work as the President of the Travel Agents Association of Sikkim (TAAS), Lachungpa’s appointment comes at a time when the state has just completed one of its most challenging rescue operations in recent history.

Lachungpa took this moment to extend heartfelt gratitude to all those who contributed to the successful evacuation of over 1,447 stranded tourists from the flood-affected areas of Lachung, Chungthang, Mangan, and Dzongu in North Sikkim. The evacuation, which took place swiftly over June 18 and June 19, was coordinated through a massive joint effort involving state government officials, central agencies, local communities, and various non-governmental organizations.

“This kind of complex evacuation, which required constant communication and swift execution, could only happen because everyone worked together,” said Lachungpa. “We have seen extraordinary coordination between the state government and the central agencies, and it proves how much we care for the safety and well-being of our guests.”

Lachungpa made special mention of Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang (Golay), under whose constant guidance the mission was carried out. He also appreciated the active ground-level supervision by Ministers Samdup Lepcha, Tshering Thendup Bhutia, and Nar Bahadur Dahal, whose presence in the affected zones helped in streamlining rescue efforts.

The chairperson also lauded the tremendous efforts of rescue and security forces, including the Border Roads Organisation (BRO), National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), General Reserve Engineer Force (GREF), Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP), and Indian Army units stationed in North Sikkim.

“Our deep respect and thanks go out to every agency involved,” he said. “They showed unwavering commitment to safely evacuate every tourist, and their professionalism deserves to be remembered and honored.”

Lachungpa also acknowledged the hard work of the Mangan District Administration, Chief Secretary, District Collector, Superintendent of Police, Additional District Collector (ADC), Chungthang SDM, SDPO, SHOs and police station teams, as well as officials from the Tourism and Civil Aviation Department, Forest Department, and Motor Vehicle Division.

Several local groups and NGOs were instrumental in ensuring food, shelter, transport, and safety for the stranded tourists. Among those mentioned were Lachung Dzomsa, Zilla and Gram Panchayats, Lachung Hotel Association, SKM Karyakartas, SKM Nari Shakti, Northern Riders, Khangri Riders, North Sikkim Tourist Taxi Drivers Welfare Association, Singhik local taxi groups, Gurudwara Chungthang, Brother United Mangan, Saakjear Lee Homestay, and even local laborers who selflessly offered help.

“Every single hand that contributed in any way is appreciated deeply,” Lachungpa said. “This kind of unity and compassion shows the real heart of Sikkim.”

He added that the residents of North Sikkim responded in overwhelming numbers to the Chief Minister’s call for assistance, proving the trust and respect the people hold for their leader.

In his remarks, Lachungpa also turned his focus toward the responsibilities of travel agents and tour operators. He urged those in the travel trade to understand that their duty doesn’t end when tourists arrive at their destinations.

“We must be vigilant about their well-being during their stay. In times of crisis, we must not wait for someone else to act. It is our responsibility to step up, check on our clients, and act swiftly to ensure their safety,” he emphasized.

Lachungpa praised his colleagues in the Travel Agents Association of Sikkim (TAAS) for standing strong and working tirelessly during this critical time. He said their collective effort sends a clear message to the rest of the world: “Sikkim takes care of its visitors.”