1 dead, 8 missing as tourist vehicle plunges into Teesta river in Sikkim; BJP leader among victims from Odisha!

In a harrowing incident in Sikkim, at least one tourist was killed while eight others have been reported missing after the vehicle ferrying them plunged 1000 feet into the Teesta River between Chungthang and Munshithang late Thursday evening. Among the missing is Itishree Jena, a BJP leader from the Jajpur Road area of Odisha, who was reportedly travelling with her family when the tragic accident occurred.

Reports said the tourists were mostly from Odisha and West Bengal. The vehicle was reportedly carrying 11 individuals (10 tourists and a driver) when it skidded off a hilly road at around 8 PM on Thursday.

The ill-fated vehicle was transporting a group of tourists back from the capital city, Gangtok, when the accident occurred. The victims have not yet been identified. 

Rescue Efforts Underway

Local police and administrative officials have launched an extensive search and rescue operation to find those missing. The victims’ families are being supported by both the West Bengal and Odisha state administrations.

According to the local SP, Mangan District, Sonam Dechu Bhutia, one body was recovered while two critically injured were rescued. The injured have been shifted to Mangan District Headquarters Hospital, where their condition remains critical.

Rescue operations have been intensified with the Army, ITBP, Sikkim Police, district officials, and local volunteers working amid harsh terrain and adverse weather. As the Teesta River is swollen due to heavy rains, it is further complicating the search. 

Odisha CM Majhi's Intervention

Meanwhile, Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi is coordinating with the Sikkim government to ensure all necessary resources are mobilised. Additionally, a specialised rescue team from Odisha has been dispatched to assist, aiming to provide medical support and aid to the victims.

“My mother, along with my mausi, Itishree Jena, and my two uncles, had gone on a trip to Sikkim. They took the train from Jajpur Road on Sunday. From Gangtok, they had gone to the zero point of a place which is 1000 feet. On their way back, my mother and elder uncle were seated in a separate vehicle while my mausi, her son, younger uncle, and his son were seated in the vehicle that met with an accident. Luckily, the two young boys were thrown out of the vehicle by my uncle and mausi. Now, they are critical and undergoing treatment. There is no trace of others missing. All of them were from my family, including those from WB,” informed a relative.

Commenting on the tragic mishap, Ollywood actor and Korei MLA said, “Itishree Jena, along with her family, had gone on a trip to Gangtok, Sikkim. They had gone in two vehicles. One of the vehicles fell into a river where the family is missing. Luckily, the two little boys had a close shave and are currently under treatment. CM Mohan Majhi is in contact with the Sikkim CM in this connection. Rescue operation is on.”

“They are currently missing. The search operation is on. CM Mohan Majhi has been in contact with the Sikkim CM. So, let us wait and hope for the best,” Deputy CM KV Singh Deo informed mediapersons.

“CM Mohan Majhi has assured that all help will be provided to trace the missing persons. Hope they come out alive,” stated Manmohan Samal.