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Massive Landslides Leave at least 6 Dead and 1,500 Tourists Stranded in Sikkim's Mangan District
At least six people have lost their lives owing to massive landslides triggered by flash floods in Sikkim's Mangan district. The natural calamity has left over 1,500 tourists stranded, primarily from Bengal, in Lachung and Chunthang. The incessant rainfall caused multiple landslides, blocking roads and damaging several houses while disrupting transport between Darjeeling, Kalimpong, and Gangtok as the water level of the Teesta River surged past the danger mark, inundating NH-10.
Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang, currently away attending an event in Arunachal Pradesh, directed authorities to ensure swift responses to the disaster. He assured affected families of support and pledged his personal supervision upon his return.
The newly constructed bailey bridge at Sangkalang, crucial for connecting Mangan with Dzongu and Chungthang, collapsed under the force of the floods. This disaster echoes the one from October last year when the Teesta River flooded, prompting the construction of the now-collapsed bridge. Dzongu, Chungthang, Lachen, and Lachung, known as famous tourist destinations, have now been cut off from the rest of the country due to road closures.
Massive damages to man and property were reported from the Pakshep and Ambhithang villages. A relief camp has been set up at Pakshep for the displaced residents. Efforts to address the crisis included a meeting convened by Mangan District Magistrate Hem Kumar Chettri, who instructed officials to prioritize rescue and relief operations.
The plight of stranded tourists remains a concern, with authorities advising them to remain in place until alternative routes are established.
The situation prompted traffic diversions for small and heavy vehicles, with alternative routes suggested to restore connectivity. Furthermore, mobile network disruptions led Sikkim authorities to request an SDRF team's deployment with ration supplies to Mangan. Meanwhile, efforts to construct a bridge at Phidang are underway to restore connectivity in the region.
