Union Home Minister Amit Shah expressed condolences to the families of those killed in the Sikkim avalanche on Tuesday, saying the government is closely monitoring the situation.
Shah took to Twitter to express his condolences for the loss of life and to assure that teams from the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) would arrive in the affected area soon. The Minister also wished those injured in the incident a speedy recovery.
“My sincerest condolences to the families of those who have lost their lives in the tragic avalanche in Sikkim. We are closely monitoring the situation and the teams of NDRF will reach the affected area soon. I pray for the speedy recovery of those injured,” Shah said in a tweet.
According to the Army, an avalanche struck the Gangtok-Nathu La road in Sikkim on Tuesday afternoon, killing at least seven tourists and trapping many more.
An estimated 20-30 tourists, as well as five to six vehicles, were believed to be trapped under the snow, according to the Army.
“By 3 pm, 14 persons were rescued and taken to a nearby Army medical facility. However, seven persons succumbed. The other seven persons were administered first aid and returned to Gangtok,” the Army revealed in a statement.