Torrential rains in Sikkim over the past three days have unleashed a series of devastating landslides, severely damaging infrastructure and cutting off vital routes in the northern part of the state.
Among the hardest hit is the Rang-Rang bridge, often referred to as the "gateway to North Sikkim," which has suffered extensive damage, leaving Mangan district headquarters isolated from the rest of the state, officials confirmed on Friday.
The alternative route via Dzongu is also impassable due to previous damage to the Sankhalang bridge, which has yet to be fully repaired since last year.
Authorities are working to restore connectivity but warned that the ongoing rain is hampering efforts.
A red alert has been issued by the India Meteorological Department (IMD) for the region, forecasting further heavy to very heavy rainfall over the next two days.
"The situation is critical, and we urge people to stay indoors and avoid travel unless absolutely necessary," said an official from the district administration.
In Soreng district's Daramdin area, multiple landslides have destroyed homes and led to significant livestock losses. Local authorities are still assessing the full extent of the damage, while relief efforts have been mobilised.
"We are doing everything we can to ensure aid reaches the affected areas quickly," said a district official.
Further complicating the situation, the National Hydroelectric Power Corporation (NHPC) has opened the Teesta Low Dam III and IV to release excess water from its reservoirs, warning residents living along the Teesta River to steer clear of the riverbanks due to heightened flood risks.
Traffic along National Highway 10 has been severely disrupted, with vehicles experiencing delays of three to four hours due to multiple landslides.
Tourists heading to and from Gangtok have been advised to take the alternate route via Lava and Kalimpong to avoid the bottlenecks.
The ruling Sikkim Krantikari Morcha (SKM) has issued a public advisory, urging residents to exercise caution. "We request all citizens to avoid unnecessary travel unless it is absolutely essential and to stay safe and vigilant," said SKM spokesperson Bikas Basnet.
He also asked party workers to assist in rescue and relief efforts wherever needed.
Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang is closely monitoring the situation and remains in constant contact with state authorities, Basnet added.
Local residents have been advised to reach out to the nearest police stations, Block Development Officers (BDOs), and Sub-Divisional Magistrates (SDMs) in case of emergencies.
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