In a tragic update from North Sikkim, the body of Indian Army soldier Sanudeen P.K. was recovered on Monday in Mangan district. He was among six personnel reported missing after a powerful landslide struck a military camp in Chatten on June 1, following days of relentless rain.
Superintendent of Police Sonam Dechu Bhutia confirmed that search operations are underway to locate the remaining five missing soldiers. “Efforts are ongoing despite difficult weather conditions,” Bhutia said, citing challenges such as unstable terrain, continued rainfall, and damaged infrastructure.
The landslide, triggered by intense downpours, had already claimed the lives of three soldiers and injured four others. Heavy rains across North Sikkim have led to widespread destruction, including multiple landslides, collapsed roads, damaged homes, and disrupted communication lines. Authorities have placed the region on high alert as the risk of further landslides remains.
Rescue teams are not only engaged in military recovery efforts but also in civilian evacuations. Earlier this week, around 2,000 stranded tourists were successfully rescued from Lachen, Lachung, and Chungthang through a combination of airlifts and restored road routes.
Officials continue to monitor the situation and urge residents and travelers to heed weather advisories. The incident highlights the Himalayan region’s vulnerability to extreme weather and the ongoing risks faced by both local populations and military personnel operating in these remote, high-altitude zones.