Over 2,700 tourists rescued after heavy snowfall blocks road to Tsomgo Lake in Sikkim

Over 2,700 tourists rescued after heavy snowfall blocks road to Tsomgo Lake in Sikkim

**Sikkim Snowfall Halts Tourism, Thousands Stranded**

**Gangtok, Sikkim** – A sudden and intense spell of heavy snowfall in the higher altitudes of Sikkim has brought tourism to a standstill, leaving thousands of visitors stranded and prompting a significant rescue operation. The picturesque region surrounding Tsomgo Lake, a popular tourist destination, became inaccessible due to the severe weather conditions, with vital roadways completely blocked by accumulated snow.

Officials reported that the inclement weather began to impact the region in the higher reaches of Sherathang and its adjacent areas. This led to a rapid deterioration of road conditions, making travel perilous. The primary route leading to the famed Tsomgo Lake, a glacial lake situated at an altitude of 12,400 feet, was rendered impassable. The critical stretch between 15th Mile and the lake itself became a scene of widespread disruption.

According to authorities, approximately 541 tourist vehicles, carrying an estimated 2,700 individuals, found themselves trapped by the unexpected blizzard. The suddenness of the snowfall caught many by surprise, with travelers en route to experience the breathtaking winter landscapes of Sikkim. The stranded tourists included a mix of domestic and international visitors, all eager to witness the snow-clad mountains and the serene beauty of Tsomgo Lake.

In response to the escalating situation, a coordinated rescue effort was immediately launched by the Sikkim Police, the Border Roads Organisation (BRO), and local disaster management teams. The primary objective was to ensure the safety and well-being of all stranded individuals. Resources were mobilized to clear the snow-laden roads and to provide essential support to those affected. Efforts focused on creating a safe passage for the vehicles and their occupants to return to safer locations.

The rescue operations involved the deployment of specialized snow-clearing machinery to tackle the substantial accumulation of snow. Simultaneously, teams worked to assess the condition of the stranded tourists, providing them with necessary supplies such as food, water, and blankets. The challenging terrain and the continuous snowfall presented significant obstacles to the rescue teams, demanding resilience and strategic planning.

While the exact duration of the road closures and the full extent of the impact on the tourism sector are yet to be determined, the incident underscores the unpredictable nature of Himalayan weather patterns. Authorities have advised tourists to remain vigilant and to check weather forecasts and road conditions before embarking on journeys to higher altitudes, especially during the winter months.

The Sikkim Tourism Department is closely monitoring the situation and is working in conjunction with the rescue agencies to facilitate the safe return of all tourists. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the importance of preparedness and the need for robust emergency response mechanisms in regions susceptible to extreme weather events. As the snow begins to recede and the roads are cleared, the focus will shift to assessing the damage and ensuring that the tourism infrastructure is restored to facilitate the resumption of normal operations. The resilience of the local administration and the dedication of the rescue personnel were instrumental in navigating this challenging situation and ensuring the safety of the visitors.

This article was created based on information from various sources and rewritten for clarity and originality.