Gangtok, Feb 19: Indian Army rescued 447 tourists at Nathu-La from the high reaches near the India-China border following sudden heavy snowfall.

On February 18, the tourists were stuck on the Nathu-La-Gangtok road following a severe snowstorm and sub-zero temperatures.

According to Army sources, the tourists were in 155 vehicles that were stranded over a 15 kilometers stretch and started skidding after the snowstorm.

“The tourists were rescued in army vehicles and accommodated inside the barracks of 17 Mile Military Camp. All tourists were provided accommodation while 26 had to be hospitalised and required critical medical support. There were no major injuries or casualties,” a press statement stated.

Brave hearts of the Indian Army in spite of adverse weather and conditions rescued tourists and provided accommodation, food and medical support.