Gangtok : There is huge devastation in Sikkim due to heavy rains that have been continuing for the last three days. Meanwhile, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a red alert and predicted heavy to very heavy rain in the state for the next two days. The situation here is already bad due to heavy rains. Landslides have occurred in many areas. The old Rang-Rang bridge, considered the gateway to the northern part of the state, has also been damaged due to landslides caused by heavy rains.
Officials said that due to the damage to this bridge, Mangan district headquarters has been cut off from the rest of the state. The district administration is trying to restore traffic as soon as possible by repairing the road. Along with this, the damage caused due to rain is also being assessed. Earlier, the Sankhalang bridge here was damaged last year. Due to this, the alternative route through Zongu was also blocked.
Landslides in many villages in Darmadin
Due to heavy rains since last three days, incidents of landslides have been reported in many villages of Darmadin area of Soreng district of the state. Many houses here have been damaged due to this. Besides, cattle have also been harmed. Relief and rescue work is being done here. The district administration is also assessing the damage.
water being released from the dam
Due to heavy rains, the dam doors of the power plant of National Hydroelectric Power Corporation Limited (NHPC) have also been opened. Lower Teesta Dams III and IV have been opened. This has been done to maintain a safe level of water in the reservoir. NHPC has advised people living on the banks of Teesta river to remain alert. Besides, due to the danger of flood, people have also been prohibited from going to the coastal parts of the river along National Highway No. 10.
Government's appeal to the people
Officials said that traffic on National Highway-10 has been disrupted due to landslides at many places. People have been advised to take alternative routes via Lava and Kalimpong. Due to rain in the state for three consecutive days, Sikkim government has appealed to the people to avoid unnecessary travel and stay safe. “We advise all citizens to avoid unnecessary travel unless necessary,” said Bikash Basnet, spokesperson of the ruling Sikkim Krantikari Morcha (SKM). Appeal to them to remain safe and alert.” He said that Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang is closely monitoring the situation and is in regular touch with the officials.
(with agency input)
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