Landslide partially blocks Teesta and Chyakoong rivers in Sikkim

Landslide occurred above the Chyakoong River, opposite OC Bhir, during the intervening night of September 5 and 6.

Sikkim, September 6: A landslide occurred above the Chyakoong River in Sikkim’s Mangan district during the intervening night of September 5 and 6, authorities said. The district administration received reports from the district police and Chungthang Sub-Division police about the incident near OC Bhir. A large section of the hillside along a newly constructed road cutting of the Naga-Tosa Road in the Naga Forest area collapsed near the confluence of the Teesta and Chyakoong rivers, opposite the Theng Tunnel. According to the ANI report, the landslide partially blocked the flow of both rivers, temporarily obstructing the Teesta and raising concerns about further disruption to water flow in the area.

The Teesta River is currently flowing normally, although water has accumulated in both the Teesta and Chyakoong rivers. Water continues to flow through both rivers despite the accumulation. The Station House Officer of Chungthang CP/PS and personnel at Theng CP are monitoring the situation on the ground. Water levels at Sankalang OP and Phidang OP remain normal, although the river water has turned muddy. Authorities at both locations have been instructed to closely monitor water levels and report any significant changes immediately, according to an official release. The Police Control Room has also been alerted and directed to warn vulnerable areas in the lower belt as a precaution.