Gangtok, Feb 22:
Indian Army on Wednesday safely rescued and evacuated some 500 stranded tourists from Nathu La, some 60 kms North East from the Sikkim capital, aftersudden heavy snowfall bordering China on the other side, official sources said.
Nathu La (pass) is about 4013 mts from sea level, and is one of the prime travelling spots for the visitors.
“Due to sudden heavy snowfall, approximately 175 vehicles with more than 500 tourists got stranded at Natu La,East Sikkim,” an official communication said giving details of the rescue operations by the Troops of Trishakti Corps.
“The Army personnel equipped with evacuating gears and logistics braving sub zero temperature rushed to rescue and provide succour to the stranded tourists,” it added.
The troops also provided prompt medicare, hot refreshments/meals and safe transportation was rendered timely to assist the tourists reach safety, the report said. “Tri Shakti Corps, Indian Army while guarding the borders in Sikkim, is always prepared to assist the civil administration and people,” said one of the rescuers.
