After days of incessant rainfall that triggered landslides across several parts of Sikkim, district administrations have begun on-ground inspections and restoration planning in the affected areas.
In Sikkim’s Pakyong district, District Collector Pari Bishnoi on Thursday inspected landslide-hit locations and drainage-related concerns near Bhanu Turning. She reviewed the condition of the damaged slope, retaining structures and surrounding areas, and sought details on the cause of the slope failure, the extent of damage, water supply disruptions, existing drainage arrangements and emergency mitigation measures.
The District Collector directed the Airport Authority of India (AAI) not to dump debris on private land and instructed it to prepare a comprehensive drainage plan. She also asked AAI to conduct a detailed study of the landslide site, undertake slope protection works and construct adequate culverts and drainage channels to ensure proper diversion of rainwater. Stressing that the affected stretch lies along a major road, she said drainage improvement should be taken up on priority to prevent further damage to public and private property.
The inspection team also visited the airport runway above the landslide site to review immediate mitigation measures. Bishnoi instructed AAI to stabilise the loose soil without delay and adopt a solution-oriented approach for the timely implementation of restoration works.
Meanwhile, following the collapse of a bridge at Barapathing under the Gnathang-Machong constituency, a joint inspection was carried out to assess the damage and initiate restoration measures. Officials said essential supplies would be transported through a trolley system to ensure uninterrupted assistance to residents of the cut-off areas. The construction agency was also directed to restore connectivity by reopening the Barapathing-Rongli road at the earliest.
Officials from the Mines and Geology Department conducted a technical assessment of the site, and a slope stability report is being prepared to guide restoration and safety measures.
Separately, Sub-Divisional Magistrate of Chungthang Arun Chettri, accompanied by SDPO Chandan Chhetri, inspected the ongoing road restoration works at Tarum Chu to review progress and assess measures being taken to restore safe connectivity.