In Sikkim's Mangan district, incessant rainfall triggered devastating landslides, resulting in significant casualties and widespread destruction. Officials confirmed one fatality and reported five individuals missing as a consequence of the landslides, which not only blocked roads but also submerged and damaged houses, and washed away electricity infrastructure.
The situation has been exacerbated across various parts of Sikkim, particularly with the Teesta River overflowing and causing inundation at Melli Stadium in the southern region of the state. In Geythang, several residences were damaged, while roads were rendered impassable at Nampathang near Pentok. Additionally, a police outpost in Bringbong had to be relocated due to the flooding, and the foundation of a bridge at Sankalan suffered damage.
The impact extended to communication networks, as mobile services in North Sikkim were disrupted due to the incessant downpour. Responding swiftly, the district administration requested assistance from the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), including provisions of essential supplies to Mangan district.
Meanwhile, Sikkim's Chief Minister, Prem Singh Tamang, engaged with officials despite his attendance at BJP leader Pema Khandu's swearing-in ceremony in Arunachal Pradesh. He ensured coordinated efforts with the North district administration and police to manage the crisis effectively.
Tamang emphasized the state government's commitment to providing comprehensive support to affected families, including recovery aid, temporary shelter, and essential supplies. He expressed solidarity with the victims and their families, pledging sustained assistance during this challenging time.
In response to the unfolding crisis, Mangan District Magistrate Hem Kumar Chettri convened an urgent meeting with departmental heads to coordinate immediate relief measures and mitigate further risks.
Elsewhere, in northern West Bengal, heavy rainfall similarly swelled the Teesta River, prompting authorities to restrict traffic along the Kalimpong-Darjeeling Road. Police advisories urged residents in affected areas to relocate to safer locations as the adverse weather conditions persist, leading to continued flooding of roads and homes.
