At least seven people were killed and 80 others feared trapped under snow when a massive avalanche struck near Sikkim’s Nathu La Mountain pass today.
The avalanche occurred around 12.20 pm today (Tuesday). The seven people succumbed to their injuries at nearby Army Hospital, according to media reports.
Quoting Police ANI news agency reported that 150 tourists are still stranded beyond the 15th Mile. However, 30 tourists, who got trapped under the snow have been rescued so far and admitted to different hospitals in Gangtok.
Rescue operations are being carried out by the Army, State Disaster Management Team and Police.
The avalanche struck around 12.20 pm at 15th Mile in Jawaharlal Nehru Road connecting to Gangtok with Nathu La when at least 150 tourists were in the area, NDTV quoted police as saying.
Nathu La Pass, at a height of 4,310 metres (14,140 feet) above the sea level, is situated on the border with China and is a major tourist destination.
Source: Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha