UKHRUL: At least 32 houses and four government quarters are at risk of being buried or submerged under mud, sand and debris in Rimbi village of Sikkim’s Gyalshing district, following incessant rainfall and recurring landslides, officials said.
A fresh major landslide late Thursday night damaged several houses in the village, with some homes, including government accommodation, destroyed or extensively damaged. No casualties have been reported so far.
The situation has deteriorated after two days of intense rainfall triggered fresh flash floods and mudslides in the area. The Rimbi-Yuksom and Rimbi-Khecheopalri roads remain closed as flooding and landslides continue to disrupt connectivity, NDTV reported.
Recurring mudslides have affected the village since September 12, carrying large boulders and debris from the unstable Singlitam hillock above Rimbi. The latest spell of heavy rainfall has further aggravated the situation.
The Yuksom-Rimbi area recorded 224.6 mm of rainfall in the 24 hours preceding the latest report, the highest in Sikkim during the period, NDTV reported.
Several families have already abandoned their homes, with many taking shelter in relief camps set up by the Geyzing district administration or staying with relatives. Residents of most of the affected houses have been shifted to the Rimbi Panchayat Bhawan.
The district administration had earlier evacuated 128 people from 28 houses on September 16 after heavy rain and flooding increased the landslide threat. The residents were moved to the Rimbi Gram Panchayat Kendra as a precautionary measure.
The administration had identified Mandir Point as particularly vulnerable, while debris accumulating along the Nik Kholsa stream was obstructing the natural flow of water. Officials warned that a sudden release of accumulated water and debris could pose a further threat to settlements along the stream.
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The RCC bridge at Rimbi was also washed away following the increased flow of water and debris, while the Rimbi River changed course and began eroding the roadside flank. The Rimbi ICDS Centre, located below the expanding landslide zone, was flooded, prompting authorities to consider shifting it to a safer location.
In nearby Singlitam, seven families comprising more than 33 people were moved to a relief shelter, where food and other essential supplies are being provided.
Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang expressed concern over the situation and said the safety and well-being of affected residents remained the government’s top priority. He directed local authorities to remain on high alert, closely monitor the situation and take all necessary measures to protect residents.
Tamang also urged people in affected areas to remain vigilant amid the torrential rain, follow official advisories and support one another.
The Sikkim State Disaster Management Authority has advised residents of Rimbi, Singlitam and other vulnerable areas to stay alert and avoid active landslide zones and stream courses during heavy rainfall.
