Sikkim Landslide: Three Dead, Six Security Personnel Missing Near Military Camp
A severe landslide, triggered by heavy rainfall, struck a military camp at Chhaten in Sikkim on Sunday evening. At least three individuals have been confirmed dead, and six security personnel are currently missing. Rescue operations are underway in the affected area. The incident highlights the dangers posed by extreme weather events in mountainous regions, particularly for military installations.
Unpacked:
Among the six missing are a Lieutenant Colonel, his retired Squadron Leader wife, and their daughter, as reported by local sources. The identities of the remaining missing security personnel have not been fully disclosed pending notification of families.
The landslide was triggered by days of torrential rainfall in the Sikkim region, which saturated the soil and destabilized the mountainous terrain. Such extreme weather events have become more frequent, increasing the risk of landslides in these vulnerable areas.
Rescue teams are working around the clock under extremely challenging conditions, including adverse weather and difficult terrain, to locate and rescue the six missing personnel. Senior army officials are overseeing the efforts, and support is being provided to affected families.
The landslide has damaged local infrastructure and temporarily stranded over 1,200 tourists. Authorities have since restored the Chungthang-Phidang road, allowing evacuation of those stranded and resumption of relief operations in the area.