HIGH ALTITUDE TREKKING INCIDENT – GOECHALA TREK, WEST SIKKIM
An unfortunate incident of a trekker’s death was reported late in the night on 18 November 2025 along the Goechala trekking route in West Sikkim! The deceased, Suman Debnath (38 years), Superintendent, CGST & Customs, West Bengal, who was part of a trekking group, complained of severe headache, nausea, extreme fatigue and breathlessness while ascending!
Despite the efforts of fellow trekkers, his condition deteriorated rapidly! He lost consciousness and passed away at approximately 2105 hours at Phedang, located nearly 25 km from Yuksom, at high altitude!
Upon receiving the information, prompt action was initiated! Rescue personnel and porters were immediately mobilised, and a dedicated team was dispatched to retrieve the mortal remains! Due to the challenging terrain and altitude, the descent required almost a full day!
The mortal remains were subsequently brought to Yuksom, and thereafter transported to Gyalshing District Hospital late last night, where the inquest and autopsy were conducted as per legal procedure!
The body has since been handed over to the guardians for transportation to West Bengal!
The incident appears to be related to high-altitude medical complications!
However, a UD case has been registered, and the matter is under detailed investigation to ascertain the exact cause of death and verify all circumstances leading up to the incident,according to Tshering Sherpa, SPS
SP/Gyalshing District .
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