Gangtok: Multiple distressing incidents have unfolded in Sikkim due to the ongoing torrential rain. A heart-wrenching incident occurred in Rimbi, West Sikkim, on Thursday, where the rising water levels of the Rimbi River swept away a 90-year-old cattleman and his cow shed.
The elderly cattleman, identified as Ash Lall Limboo from Darap, West Sikkim, was the son of the late Ash Dal Limboo, according to the police report.
In response to the news, a team led by ASP and SHO Geyzing was immediately dispatched to the site for further investigation. Initial findings indicate that the shed, situated along the river, was completely washed away. The continuous rainfall in recent days significantly raised the water level of the river. The man’s body was found under the jurisdiction of Namchi Police.
Furthermore, the heavy rainfall has caused extensive devastation in North Sikkim, particularly affecting the areas of Chungthang, Lachung, Lachen, and Tsomgo. The adverse weather conditions have inflicted severe damage to the 15th Mile road. In Pakyong District, a footbridge in Rolep was destroyed, and properties along the riverbanks suffered significant damage.
In addition, the Rangpo River has exceeded its normal levels downstream, resulting in the destruction of multiple properties and causing panic among the public. The district administration has taken prompt action to ensure public safety, advising residents living near the river to relocate as the relentless rainfall may further raise water levels.
Another incident in North Sikkim near the Toong Checkpost involved a massive landslide that severely affected a truck loaded with debris from the landslide.
According to reports, a considerable number of domestic and international tourists, along with their vehicles, are currently stranded in Lachen and Lachung, totaling more than 1,300 individuals. Immediate measures are being implemented to provide assistance and ensure their safety.
These incidents highlight the destructive consequences of heavy rainfall in Sikkim and emphasize the urgent need for proactive measures to mitigate such disasters, protecting the lives and properties of those residing in vulnerable areas.
Meanwhile, the Indian Meteorological Department has forecasted heavy to very heavy rain at isolated places over the state, especially in Mangan and Gangtok districts, from 16th to 20th June 2023.
In a statement released by the army, it was reported that significant road damage and numerous landslides occurred in Sikkim on the night of June 15th and throughout the following day of June 16th due to heavy rainfall. The Singtam – Dikchu – Rangrang – Mangan – Chungthang road, a crucial transportation route, was particularly affected.
“The series of incidents began around 6:15 pm on June 15th when landslides occurred on both sides of Rangarang, blocking the road. The brave Karamyogis from the BRO Project Swastik swiftly responded and used heavy earthmoving machinery to clear the road. Despite the hazardous conditions of heavy rain and potential rockslides, the BRO Karamyogis successfully reopened the road for traffic by approximately 10:00 pm,” said an army official.
He added that due to continuous rainfall throughout the night, additional landslides took place near Singtam and Rangrang in the early morning. “These landslides consisted mostly of loose stones and boulders dislodged from the mountain summits, making the road impassable. The presence of this debris posed a significant threat to vehicles and individuals, with the potential for damage and injury,” the official informed.
While the Border Road Organisation(BRO) was engaged in a relentless effort to clear these landslides and roadblocks, a flash flood occurred on the Mangan to Chungthang road, washing away a section of the road along with a small bridge.
Meanwhile an advisory has also been issued in the state advising people not to go near rivers.
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