Landslide in North Sikkim Claims 3 Lives, several Missing, Disrupts Connectivity

MANGAN ( North Sikkim )- A devastating landslide struck Chatten in North Sikkim on the evening of June 1, 2025, around 7:00 PM, causing significant damage to local infrastructure and claiming at least three lives, including some soldiers.

The disaster, triggered by incessant rains and a cloudburst on the night of May 30-31, has left several others missing, with search and rescue operations ongoing, according to the Indian Army and local authorities.

The landslide has severely impacted connectivity in the region, with the River Teesta swelling 35-40 feet, damaging vital roads and bridges. The district administration reported widespread property damage in the Theeng and Chungthang areas, exacerbating the crisis.

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The Border Roads Organisation (BRO) under Project Swastik has launched immediate rescue and restoration efforts to address the severed connectivity and aid affected communities.

Heavy rainfall over the past few days has compounded the situation, with multiple landslides blocking key routes, including the Pegong (Chungthang) to Phidang road via Shipgyer and Sangkalang. As a result, nearly 1,500 tourists remain stranded in various parts of North Sikkim, with the Lachung road partially restored but still inaccessible for heavy vehicles.

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Authorities have suspended all tourist permits for the region and advised stranded tourists to stay in their hotels until roads are fully cleared.

The tragic incident follows a series of landslides in the region, with a vehicle plunging into the swollen Teesta River on May 29, resulting in one confirmed death and eight people still missing. Rescue operations for the missing have been halted due to the river’s dangerous conditions. The district administration has issued a high alert along the Teesta’s banks, with local residents being warned via public announcements to stay vigilant.

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Sikkim’s Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang is personally overseeing relief efforts, while the district administration, Sikkim Police, and disaster management teams are working tirelessly to assist affected residents and tourists. The state has faced recurring landslides this season, with earlier incidents in April stranding thousands and prompting large-scale evacuations.

As North Sikkim grapples with the aftermath, authorities are urging caution and have halted all tourist movement to the region until further notice. The focus remains on restoring connectivity, ensuring the safety of stranded individuals, and continuing the search for those missing in this tragic event.