Panic spread across parts of Sikkim following a series of mild earthquakes over the past few days, prompting the State Disaster Management Authority (SDMA) to urge the public to remain calm, alert and prepared, and to refrain from spreading rumours or unverified information.
In an official advisory, the SDMA clarified that earthquakes are natural geological phenomena and cannot be predicted with certainty. While Sikkim falls under a high seismic zone, authorities stressed that there is no cause for alarm and emphasised the importance of basic preparedness rather than panic.
The government has advised citizens to identify safe spots at homes, workplaces and public spaces, follow standard earthquake safety measures during tremors, and rely only on official advisories issued by authorised agencies. Mock drills and awareness programmes have been conducted regularly across the state, particularly in schools, to enhance disaster preparedness, officials said.
Meanwhile, following the recent earthquake that struck the Gyalshing area, structural impacts have been observed in some school buildings in the district. During a site inspection on 6 February, preliminary assessments confirmed the presence of cracks in multiple buildings.
At Hee-Yangthang Senior Secondary School, several major and minor cracks were found on walls and ceilings, along with damage to door and window frames. Similar cracks were reported at Bongten Senior Secondary School, while multiple minor cracks were observed in the old Junior High School building under Khandu Senior Secondary School. Buildings at Radhu Junior High School and Lower Radhu Primary School were also inspected.
No human casualties have been reported so far. However, authorities said further technical assessments would be conducted to ensure the safety of students and staff. The District Education Office and district administration are closely monitoring the situation and will take additional measures if required.
Separately, the urban development department has informed residents who constructed houses in Gyalshing Bazaar under Gyalshing Nagar Panchayat without approved blueprints that a verification process is underway. A total station survey of building footprints has been completed, and scrutiny of records will be carried out to determine eligibility for regularisation under the Sikkim Site Allotment Rules, 2012, and the Sikkim Building Construction Regulations, 1991.
Authorities reiterated that preparedness measures are in place and sought public cooperation to ensure safety and resilience.