Relief and rescue work continued on war footing in earthquake devastated Sikkim. Over 10,000 food packets have been airdropped in the quake-hit areas of north Sikkim as two major roads connecting the region remained blocked due to landslides after Sunday’s 6.8 magnitude earthquake. Home Ministry officials said that another 5000 food packet are being sent to Chungthan, Lachung and Lachen. 15 helicopters of Army and Air Force have been pressed into relief work. For airdropping and reconnaissance, 150 sorties have been carried out so far. Chief Secretary Karma Gyatso told reporters that more than 100 relief camps have been set up across the state where food supplies and other required materials have reached. Army sources said, 22 engineers and technicians of a private Construction company, engaged by the Teesta Urja Project, were rescued from Tung, five days after their bus was stranded during the powerful tremor. Death toll due to earthquake in Sikkim has gone up to 92 with rescue workers recovering 18 more bodies from the debris of collapsed buildings yesterday. AIR correspondent reports that bad weather yesterday hampered the airlifting of 300 people stranded at Chungthang in North district and 106 persons stranded at Sakyong.
News On AIR | September 24, 2011 9:07 AM
Earthquake: Relief, rescue work continues on war footing in Sikkim