Guwahati, June 1 -- Massive landslides, triggered by relentless rain, blocked North Sikkim's main arterial road, stranding nearly 1,500 tourists in various areas, officials stated on Sunday.

The challenging weather conditions have also severely hampered the search for eight individuals missing after their vehicle plunged into the raging Teesta River in Sikkim on Thursday night.

According to officials, 115 tourists are currently stuck in Lachen and a larger group of 1,350 in Lachung.

Due to the harsh conditions, Mangan's SP Sonam Detchu Bhutia advised tourists to remain in their hotels until the authorities cleared the road area, as multiple landslides have closed exit points in both directions.

Heavy rainfall and a dangerously swollen...