NDRF team flies to North Sikkim for rescue ops after landslide buries army post
Times of India | 3 June 2025
Representative AI image GANGTOK: A 23-member NDRF contingent departed from Gangtok to Chhaten in North Sikkim on Tuesday to conduct search and rescue operations for six soldiers who went missing after a landslide struck an army installation, according to officials.The officials confirmed that the NDRF unit is carrying satellite phones and crucial emergency supplies.The NDRF team departed via helicopter from Pakyong Airport to Chhaten on Tuesday.A landslide struck a military facility at Chhaten, resulting in three army casualties and six missing soldiers. The incident occurred near Lachen town in Mangan district at 7 pm on Sunday, following substantial rainfall in the region."... A catastrophic landslide occurred following intense and continuous rainfall in the region causing the death of three combatants, identified as Havaldar Lakhwinder Singh, Lance Naik Munish Thakur, and Porter Abhishek Lakhada," an official statement said.Officials confirmed that the deceased personnel's remains were recovered, and four additional soldiers were rescued with minor injuries.The NDRF team's responsibilities include assisting with evacuation, rescue efforts, and establishing temporary communication networks.Officials have instructed the exploration of alternative foot routes and evaluation of helipad operations' viability, subject to weather conditions.