A district-wide damage assessment is underway in Gangtok after heavy rainfall triggered landslides, mudflows and road blockages across several localities, with authorities assessing damage to homes, roads and public infrastructure.
The District Disaster Management Authority (DDMA) deployed a multi-agency team to inspect affected areas and identify locations requiring immediate intervention.
The team, led by Kabi Tingda MLA Tshering T Bhutia, conducted inspections on Wednesday and Thursday. It included DDMA officials, Roads and Bridges Department engineers, the Ranka Block Development Officer, revenue surveyors, councillors and the MLA’s OSD.
The assessment covered Bojoghari, Lower Bojoghari, Lingding, High Court Road, TNA Gate, VIP Colony, Upper Z-Bojoghari, Pangthang-Lingdok Road, Pamro Gaon, Ling Perbing, Upper and Middle Luing, Phenzong, Ranka, Rakdong Tintek, Daragaon Upper Burtuk, Sichey and Arithang.
Several roads remained blocked by mud and debris, restricting vehicular movement. Teams also assessed damage to residential structures, with some houses considered vulnerable to further slope movement.
Public infrastructure was also affected. The Sewage Treatment Plant at Sichey sustained damage, while debris accumulation near the Enchey School 33/11 kV Switching Station was identified as a potential hazard.
Authorities placed tarpaulins over vulnerable slide zones as a precaution to reduce rainwater seepage. The District Collector and DDMA chairman directed departments to clear debris, restore road connectivity, verify the extent of damage and provide assistance to affected residents.
With rainfall continuing, field teams were conducting further inspections to identify areas requiring priority intervention.
Residents were advised to avoid unnecessary travel through landslide-prone areas and exercise extra caution at night. Those living near unstable slopes were asked to immediately report cracks, slope movement or falling debris to authorities.
