Gangtok, June 3 (H.S.): The National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) has been deployed for search and rescue operations following a natural disaster in North Sikkim. A team of NDRF personnel arrived at the Pakyong Greenfield Airport on Tuesday morning aboard two V-5 helicopters. NDRF units are equipped with satellite phones and necessary emergency equipment.According to information, 23 NDRF personnel set off from Pakyong Greenfield Airport to Chhatten in North Sikkim this morning with essential supplies. The purpose of this deployment is to strengthen ground efforts in remote areas where access has been severely disrupted due to recent natural disasters. These teams will assist in evacuation, rescue operations, and the establishment of temporary communication lines in affected areas.

Authorities have issued directives to find alternative footpaths and assess the feasibility of helipad operations based on the current weather conditions. NDRF teams will strive to ensure timely assistance in affected areas.It is noteworthy that continuous rainfall in North Sikkim has caused widespread damage to life and property, disrupting normal life. Three soldiers lost their lives in a landslide at a military camp in Chhatten on Sunday night. Six people are still missing, and search and rescue operations are ongoing.Previously, on the night of May 29, nine tourists, including the driver, are still missing following a vehicle accident near Munsithang in North Sikkim. The search and rescue efforts have been hampered due to landslides, and the water level of the Teesta River has risen because of heavy rainfall.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar