Torrential rainfall in North Sikkim has caused widespread devastation. Landslides have impacted numerous parts of the state, severely disrupting daily life. A rescue operation successfully evacuated 1,678 tourists stranded in popular tourist destinations such as Lachung and Chungthang.
Gangtok: A natural disaster has once again wreaked havoc in Sikkim, a beautiful but geographically vulnerable state in Northeast India. Days of torrential rain have not only affected daily life but also posed serious challenges to tourism, transportation, and security. Heavy rainfall has triggered numerous floods and landslides in North Sikkim, resulting in the reported deaths of three soldiers, six missing soldiers, and over 1,600 stranded tourists. Relief and rescue efforts are ongoing, but challenges persist due to inclement weather and disrupted roads.
Hundreds of Tourists Stranded in Lachung and Chungthang
Heavy rainfall stranded 1,678 tourists in the popular Sikkim tourist destinations of Lachung and Chungthang. These tourists included 561 women, 380 children, and dozens of elderly individuals from both India and abroad. Coordinated teams from the state administration, army, police, and NDRF worked around the clock on a relief operation, safely relocating most tourists to safer locations like Gangtok and Phodang.
However, over 100 tourists remain stranded in Lachung, and efforts to evacuate them continue. According to Director General of Police Akshay Sachdeva, special teams have been formed to prioritize bringing the stranded individuals to safety.
Military Camp Devastated in Mangan
On June 1st, a sudden landslide in the Chaten area of Mangan district struck an army camp. This incident resulted in the deaths of Havildar Lakhvinder Singh, Lance Naik Munish Thakur, and a local porter, Abhishek Lakra. Additionally, six soldiers are missing, and special army units have been deployed to search for them.
The missing soldiers reportedly include an officer and their family members. Heavy rainfall and muddy conditions are hindering rescue operations, but the soldiers are making every possible effort.
Roads Blocked, Bridges Washed Away, BRO Mobilized for Repairs
Landslides have completely disrupted traffic on several major roads. Two bridges connecting Lachung and Lachen have reportedly collapsed, making access to these areas extremely difficult. The Border Roads Organisation (BRO) has commenced repairs on damaged roads to facilitate the swift delivery of relief material and vehicles.
Rising Teesta River Water Levels Cause Concern
The Teesta River, flowing between Sikkim and West Bengal, is currently flowing above the danger mark. The b current has impacted several banks and settlements. Over 130 mm of rainfall in four consecutive days has not only caused flooding but also accelerated landslides.
Popular tourist destinations such as Gurudongmar Lake, the Valley of Flowers, and Lachen have been severely affected by this disaster. According to locals, houses have developed cracks, water supply is disrupted, and electricity is down.
Administrative Preparedness and Relief Efforts
Given the severity of the situation, the state government has placed its disaster management system on high alert. Chief Secretary R. Telang reviewed the situation with senior officials and directed the swift delivery of relief. The district administration, army, NDRF, and health department are working together to provide food, medicine, and safe shelter in relief camps. Local residents have also shown remarkable cooperation during this crisis; many villagers have opened their homes to tourists and soldiers.
