Gangtok, Jun 5: The first batch of stranded tourists from Chaten was successfully evacuated on Thursday at Pakyong Greenfield Airport. Two MI-17 helicopters transported 39 tourists from Chaten to Pakyong, while a Cheetah helicopter evacuated an additional four passengers.

To facilitate further travel, the Government of Sikkim has arranged SNT buses to carry tourists from Pakyong to Gangtok. An MI-17 helicopter remains on standby to assist with airlifting stranded tourists to Bagdogra, ensuring continued support for safe transportation.