Sikkim Floods: Key Bridge Destroyed, Phidang–Sankalang Road Link Severed
Relentless rainfall washed away the Bailey Bridge over Phee Khola in North Sikkim's Dzongu region, disrupting road connectivity and isolating several remote villages.
GANGTOK- Road connectivity in North Sikkim suffered a major disruption after a Bailey Bridge over the Phee Khola at Phidang in the Dzongu region was washed away on Saturday night following incessant rainfall.
According to local authorities, the bridge collapsed after water levels in the mountain stream rose sharply due to continuous heavy rain, placing immense pressure on the bridge’s foundation. The collapse completely severed the Phidang–Sankalang road, one of the principal transport routes serving the remote Dzongu region in Mangan district.
Officials said no casualties or injuries were reported in the incident. However, the loss of the bridge has brought vehicular movement to a complete halt, leaving several villages temporarily isolated from the rest of the district.
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The Phidang–Sankalang road serves as a crucial transportation corridor for residents, enabling access to markets, educational institutions, healthcare facilities and administrative services. The disruption is expected to significantly affect the movement of people, essential supplies and emergency services.
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The incident poses particular challenges for the indigenous Lepcha communities residing in Dzongu, an area recognised for its ecological significance and cultural heritage. With the bridge destroyed, residents now face difficulties in accessing medical assistance and transporting daily necessities.
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Authorities are assessing the extent of the damage and exploring temporary measures to restore connectivity. Among the options under consideration are emergency zip lines and temporary pedestrian bridges to facilitate the movement of food supplies, medicines and other essential commodities until a permanent solution is implemented.
Engineering teams are expected to conduct a detailed assessment of the site before restoration work begins. Officials have not yet announced a timeline for constructing a replacement bridge.
The incident comes amid widespread monsoon-related disruptions across the eastern Himalayan region, where persistent rainfall has triggered floods, landslides and damage to road infrastructure in several areas. Authorities have advised residents and travellers to avoid unnecessary travel through vulnerable stretches and follow official weather and traffic advisories.
