Authorities in Gyalshing district in Sikkim evacuated 128 people from 28 houses in vulnerable parts of Rimbi following heavy rainfall and flooding on September 14, as continuing landslide activity since September 12 threatened residents, roads and other infrastructure.
Key Takeaways:
- Authorities evacuated 128 people from 28 houses in vulnerable parts of Rimbi after heavy rain and flooding.
- Landslide debris has affected the NiK Kholsa stream, while the Rimbi River has changed course and damaged the roadside flank.
- Officials continue evacuation, monitoring, debris clearance and road restoration while urging residents to stay away from danger zones.
Heavy rain has increased landslide activity across parts of Sikkim’s Gyalshing district, with Rimbi and Singlitam facing serious risks from slope failures, debris movement and flooding. Authorities have moved vulnerable residents to safer locations as rainfall continues to threaten homes and infrastructure.
| More Northeast News HERE |
The Sikkim State Disaster Management Authority (SSDMA) said landslide incidents have affected the two areas since September 12. The incidents have damaged residential areas and public infrastructure.
The district administration and different line departments are keeping a continuous watch on the affected locations. Officials are also carrying out relief, restoration and safety operations.
128 People Evacuated in Rimbi
Rimbi has emerged as one of the most vulnerable locations following heavy rain and flooding on September 14.
Authorities initially evacuated four houses occupied by 18 people from vulnerable areas. The affected families moved to relatives’ homes.
The administration later expanded the evacuation operation as rainfall intensified. Officials shifted 128 people from 28 houses to the Rimbi Gram Panchayat Kendra.
The move aims to keep residents away from areas exposed to further slope failures, flooding and debris movement.
Officials have identified the area around Mandir Point as the main zone of landslide activity. Rimbi Ward, located in a lower-lying area, also remains vulnerable to additional slope failures.
Debris Threat Along NiK Kholsa Stream
The landslide situation has also affected water channels around Rimbi.
A large quantity of debris has accumulated along the NiK Kholsa stream. Flowing water is carrying loose material towards Rimbi village.
The surge has already swept away an RCC bridge. The debris has also disrupted the natural flow of water.
Officials are concerned that intense rainfall could trigger a sudden release of water and debris. Such a surge could pose an additional threat to people and infrastructure in the surrounding areas.
The Rimbi River has also changed its course. The altered flow is now affecting the roadside flank.
Singlitam Families Shifted to Relief Centre
Singlitam has also reported direct impacts from the landslides.
Seven affected households have moved to a relief centre at Singlitam Ward. More than 33 people are currently staying at the shelter.
The group includes children and elderly residents. The administration is providing food and other essential supplies at the relief centre.
Officials have also installed lighting at the affected Singlitam site. The measure will help personnel monitor the location during rainfall and respond to changing conditions.
Road Restoration and Bailey Bridge Work
Infrastructure restoration remains a major priority in the affected areas.
The state government is constructing a Bailey Bridge at a higher location after the main road was washed away on the night of May 14.
Workers are also continuing debris clearance and road restoration activities. The operations aim to improve access and support movement in the affected areas.
At Singlitam, authorities plan to construct a temporary bamboo bridge from September 15. The bridge will help improve local movement while restoration work continues.
Officials are also supplying water pipes to restore connectivity to the Rimbi relief camp and the village water tank.
Rimbi ICDS Centre Faces Relocation
The Rimbi ICDS Centre also suffered flooding amid the worsening situation.
The centre lies below the expanding landslide zone and was flooded on September 14. Authorities have advised the concerned department to examine the possibility of shifting the facility to a safer location.
The recommendation reflects the continuing threat from landslide expansion and heavy rainfall in the area.
Residents Asked to Stay Alert
Authorities have urged residents to avoid landslide-prone locations during heavy rain. They have also advised people to stay away from rivers and streams when rainfall intensifies.
Residents should immediately inform authorities if they notice fresh cracks in the ground, movement of soil or slopes, unusual sounds or sudden changes in water flow.
With rainfall continuing to create risks in vulnerable parts of Gyalshing, officials are maintaining close surveillance while evacuation, relief, restoration and safety measures continue.