Sikkim Govt Ramps Up Efforts to Rescue Stranded Team in J&K Floods

Gangtok, 12 Sep 2014: The people of Sikkim stand in solidarity with the nation, extending their heartfelt sympathy to the victims of the devastating floods in Jammu & Kashmir. Among those affected are three officials from the Sikkim Rural Development Agency (SRDA) under the Rural Management and Development Department, led by Ms. Namrata Thapa, Project Director of SRDA and CEO of NRLM, along with six rural artisans representing various Self Help Groups. The group had traveled to Srinagar to participate in the SARAS Mela, a program sponsored by the Ministry of Rural Development, Government of India, when they became trapped in the flood crisis.

In response to the situation, the Sikkim State Government promptly reached out to the Chief Secretary of Jammu & Kashmir, issuing multiple communications and requests for immediate assistance and rescue efforts for the stranded officers and rural artisans.

The rescue and relief operations for the Sikkim team are being closely coordinated and monitored by the State Government. The Principal Resident Commissioner of Sikkim House in New Delhi has been directed to maintain regular communication with the Resident Commissioner of Jammu & Kashmir. The exact location of the stranded team—Pearl Cottage Hotel on Shiraz Road, Rainawari, near the petrol pump in Srinagar—has been identified with coordinates at latitude 34.5.43 N and longitude 74.49.15 E. These details have been communicated to the Air Force, which is conducting relief operations. Assistance from the Army has also been requested.

However, due to the hotel’s low-lying position and its proximity to high-rise buildings, it has been difficult for helicopters to airlift the group. The government is actively pursuing an alternative rescue plan involving evacuation by boat, followed by helicopter transport. Dr. Sandeep Tambe, IFS, Special Secretary of RMDD, has been deputed to coordinate the efforts from Delhi and will travel to Srinagar if necessary to ensure the safe return of the stranded group.

The Sikkim State Government remains vigilant and committed to ensuring the swift rescue and relief of its team, continuing to monitor the situation around the clock.

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