Severe Weather Disrupts Tourism in Sikkim Amid Landslides
Weather Woes in Sikkim
The Himalayan state of Sikkim is facing significant challenges due to adverse weather conditions, impacting both tourists and local authorities. Since Tuesday night, heavy rainfall has triggered extensive landslides in various regions of North Sikkim. As a result of this natural disaster, around 200 tourists have become stranded near Chungthang.
According to Anant Jain, the district collector of Mangan, a major landslide occurred on the Chungthang-Lachen main road on Tuesday night. The road was completely blocked by falling rocks and debris, leaving tourists heading to Lachen stuck midway.
Rescue Operations Underway
In light of the situation, the stranded tourists have been accommodated overnight at an ITBP (Indo-Tibetan Border Police) camp and a local gurdwara in Chungthang. The administration has ensured proper arrangements for their food and lodging.
Collector Anant Jain provided updates, stating that the landslide on the crucial Chungthang-Lachen route has left many tourists trapped. He confirmed that the affected visitors were sheltered at the ITBP camp and the gurdwara.
Restoration Efforts by BRO
Officials reported that the Border Roads Organization (BRO) is actively working on restoration efforts. They mentioned that the situation will be assessed, and travel will only be permitted once the routes are declared safe based on weather conditions. Some tourists have already returned to Gangtok and canceled their travel plans.
Clearing of Roads
Meanwhile, the road to Lachung, which was also blocked on Tuesday night, has been cleared, allowing tourists to safely return to Gangtok by Wednesday morning.
Tourist Destinations Affected by Heavy Snowfall
Authorities are closely monitoring the situation as intermittent rain continues in the area. The Lachen route had only recently reopened on March 9 after being severely damaged by a glacial lake outburst flood (GLOF) earlier this year.
Additionally, heavy snowfall over the past few days has led to the closure of major tourist destinations such as Tsongmo Lake and Nathula.