GANGTOK: North Sikkim has been hit by heavy rainfall, resulting in the overflow of nearby rivers and causing a flash flood that has affected National Highway 10 at Pegong. On Thursday night, a flash flood occurred in North Sikkim, cutting off areas such as Lachen and Lachung from the rest of the state.
According to officials, the flash flood severely damaged the highway's infrastructure, making it dangerous for any type of automotive travel. In Rolep, East Sikkim, an excavator was seen being washed away by the river as it quickly flooded, according to eyewitness accounts. Additionally, there are high water levels in the Meyong River in the Mangan district.
The road connecting Singtam, Dikchu, Rangran, Mangan, and Chungthang has been heavily impacted by landslides and road damage. The disruption began at around 6:15 pm on June 15, when landslides blocked the road on both sides of Rangarang. Boulders and stones rolled down the mountains, completely obstructing the road.
Another flash flood washed away a portion of the Mangan to Chungthang road, including a small bridge in North Sikkim. Sikkim Police reported that a shed built alongside the river was also swept away, with the water level rising due to continuous heavy rain.
Multiple other roads in the region remain blocked due to the severe weather conditions. The Namok River and 4th-mile areas have caused blockages on the Mangan to Dikchu road. Similarly, the road from Phidang to Lum and the Sangkalang to 12th mile in the Upper Dzongu road are also blocked. The Dikchu to Gangtok route via Rakdung-Tintek road is open only for light vehicles. Additionally, the Mangan to Chungthang road is blocked at various locations near the Wang River sliding area and the Pegong River overflow near the Toong Check post.
The Border Roads Organisation is trying to clear the debris and return things to normal while local officials are now evaluating the situation. The roadway will eventually be restored to traffic, although it may take some time. The road between Gangtok and Nathula has also been blocked by landslides at the 13th mile, Thulo Khola, and Rail Khola.
Due to the ongoing situation, all tourist permits for Tsomgo Lake, Baba Mandir, Nathula, and North Sikkim have been canceled until further notice.
Heavy rains in North Sikkim have led to a flash flood, causing severe damage to infrastructure and blocking several roads. Efforts are underway to restore the affected areas, but it may take time before normal traffic can resume. Tourist activities in certain locations have been suspended for safety reasons.
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