fatal-landslides-hit-north-sikkim

At least one person was killed and five others went missing as massive landslides, triggered by incessant rainfall, wreaked havoc in Sikkim’s Mangan district, officials reported on Thursday.

 

The relentless landslides have blocked roadways and caused severe damage to multiple houses, while electricity poles were swept away, plunging several areas into darkness. The body of a victim was recovered from the Pakshep area of Mangan. Additionally, three individuals were reported missing from Ambithang near Rangrang, and two others from Pakshep.

 

In the aftermath, three houses in Geythang were damaged, with further destruction and road blockages occurring at Nampathang near Pentok. The Bringbong police outpost had to be relocated due to a landslide, and the foundation of a bridge at Sankalan suffered damage. Mobile network services in North Sikkim were disrupted, complicating rescue efforts.

 

The district administration has requested the dispatch of an SDRF team with rations to Mangan to support the affected population. Mangan District Magistrate Hem Kumar Chettri convened an urgent meeting with department heads to coordinate the emergency response. An earthmover was deployed near Mangshila Degree College to clear debris from the roads, facilitating the movement of rescue teams.

 

Sikkim Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang, currently in Arunachal Pradesh for the swearing-in ceremony of BJP leader Pema Khandu, has been in constant communication with the North district administration, police, and other officials to ensure a swift response to the disaster.

 

"Efforts are underway to provide every possible support to the victims and affected families, including recovery assistance, temporary settlement, and the provision of basic needs," Tamang stated.

 

"The state government stands firmly with the victims of this unfortunate incident, pledging the utmost support to the bereaved families and all those affected and displaced by the landslides," he added.

 

Tamang plans to return to Sikkim promptly to personally oversee the rescue and relief operations.