Sikkim: Landslide Claims Lives of 3 Army Personnel 6 Still Missing in Chhaten Amid Ongoing Rescue Efforts

Ravi Singh

In a heartbreaking incident, a devastating landslide triggered by relentless rainfall struck a military camp at Chhaten, near Lachen town in Mangan district of Sikkim, on Sunday evening. The natural disaster, which occurred around 7 PM, has claimed the lives of three brave Army personnel and left six others missing, according to a statement from a defence official released on Monday.

The personnel who lost their lives have been identified as Havaldar Lakhwinder Singh, Lance Naik Munish Thakur, and porter Abhishek Lakhada. Their bodies were recovered by rescue teams battling harsh terrain and unstable conditions. Four other soldiers sustained minor injuries and were successfully rescued.

Search and rescue operations are currently underway under extremely difficult circumstances. Army teams, along with local authorities, are working tirelessly around the clock to locate the six missing personnel. Continuous rainfall, treacherous slopes, and debris have made the operation complex and dangerous, but efforts remain undeterred.

The Indian Army has extended heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families and assured them of every possible support in this hour of grief. The tragic loss of lives in the line of duty once again highlights the constant challenges faced by the armed forces, especially those deployed in remote and weather-vulnerable regions.

As Sikkim continues to reel under the impact of heavy rains and landslides, this incident underscores the urgent need for better infrastructure and disaster preparedness in high-altitude military zones. Meanwhile, prayers and hopes continue for the safe return of the missing heroes.