Severe weather conditions triggered multiple landslides across North Sikkim, cutting off key routes and prompting rescue efforts. The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a yellow alert for West Bengal, warning of more heavy rainfall in the coming days.
The North Sikkim landslides have raised significant concerns over the safety of residents and tourists, as well as the stability of the region’s hilly terrain. With parts of Sikkim already facing fragile infrastructure, the continued downpour threatens to worsen the situation.
Torrential Rain Sparks Chaos in North Sikkim
Heavy rain lashed Sikkim for the third consecutive day, triggering landslides in areas like Mangan, Chungthang, and Lachen. These regions are known for their steep slopes and vulnerability to erosion, especially during monsoon months.
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According to officials, several road sections on National Highway 310 were blocked by debris. Rescue teams and the Border Roads Organisation (BRO) worked swiftly to clear key routes and restore access to stranded travelers.
Eyewitnesses reported boulders rolling down mountain slopes, damaging parked vehicles and electricity poles. No major casualties have been reported so far, but damage to property and roads has been significant.
Emergency Measures and Relief Operations
In response to the North Sikkim landslides, state disaster response forces have been deployed in vulnerable zones. District administration officials are coordinating with BRO to clear roads and assess damage.
Temporary shelters have been set up in government buildings and schools to accommodate affected residents. Essential supplies, including food, drinking water, and medicines, are being distributed in isolated areas.
Meanwhile, mobile connectivity remains patchy in several parts of North Sikkim, complicating coordination and communication efforts. Authorities have urged people to stay indoors unless necessary.
Yellow Alert for Bengal as Rain Advances Southward
As rain-bearing clouds move south, the IMD issued a yellow alert for parts of West Bengal, including Darjeeling, Kalimpong, Jalpaiguri, Alipurduar, and Cooch Behar. Kolkata and surrounding districts may also experience moderate to heavy showers.
A yellow alert signals a “be aware” warning, advising people to monitor weather conditions and follow updates from official channels. Urban flooding, waterlogging, and traffic disruptions are likely in low-lying areas.
The Kolkata Municipal Corporation has placed disaster response teams on standby and urged residents to avoid flooded areas. Drainage pumps and emergency staff have been deployed in vulnerable city zones.
Travel and Tourism Affected
The North Sikkim landslides have severely impacted tourism, especially in areas popular for summer travel. Routes to Gurudongmar Lake, Yumthang Valley, and Zero Point remain inaccessible. Tour operators have suspended packages to these locations until further notice.
Travelers stranded in North Sikkim are being moved to safer locations, and efforts are underway to evacuate tourists from high-altitude areas. The Sikkim Tourism Department has issued an advisory, urging tourists to check weather updates before planning trips.
Additionally, the Siliguri-Gangtok highway has experienced intermittent blockages, affecting supplies and essential movement between Sikkim and Bengal.
Experts Warn of More Landslides
Geologists and environmental experts have warned that continued rainfall could lead to more North Sikkim landslides. The region’s deforested slopes and expanding road infrastructure increase the risk of soil erosion and instability.
They emphasize the need for long-term disaster preparedness, slope reinforcement, and better drainage systems to handle the changing climate and increased rainfall intensity.
State Governments on High Alert
Both the Sikkim and West Bengal governments are coordinating closely with central agencies to monitor the situation. Weather monitoring has been intensified, and alerts are being issued at the block level to ensure early action in case of emergencies.
The Chief Minister of Sikkim has urged residents to remain vigilant and cooperate with rescue operations. Meanwhile, Bengal’s disaster management team remains on standby, especially in northern districts bordering Sikkim.
The North Sikkim landslides have disrupted daily life and exposed the fragile condition of infrastructure in the Himalayan region. With heavy rains forecast to continue and a yellow alert in place for Bengal, preparedness and caution are crucial.
Authorities are working to ensure timely relief, but residents and travelers are advised to remain updated through official weather bulletins and avoid non-essential movement in high-risk areas.
