Continuous heavy rainfall in Sikkim’s Mangan district has caused widespread disruption, triggering landslides and road closures across North Sikkim. Approximately 1,500 tourists remain stranded in various areas, while the rising waters of the Teesta River have forced authorities to pause the search for eight missing tourists after a tragic accident.

Roads Severely Affected, Tourists Stranded in Lachen and Lachung

The worst-hit route is the road linking Chungthang to Lachen and Lachung, which has been blocked by landslides. According to Mangan Superintendent of Police Sonam Dechu Bhutia, about 115 tourists are trapped in Lachen, while 1,350 are stranded in Lachung. Due to multiple landslides, both entry and exit points are closed, and tourists have been advised to remain where they are until the roads reopen safely.

Fatal Accident in Mangan: One Dead, Two Injured, Eight Missing

The calamity worsened when a tourist vehicle carrying 11 people plunged into the Teesta River on Thursday night. One person died, two others sustained injuries, and eight tourists went missing. Rescue teams initially launched search operations but had to suspend them owing to the dangerous rise in river water levels.

Restoration Efforts Underway, Basic Services Disrupted

Heavy rainfall also caused a power outage on Friday afternoon, which was restored by the evening. However, drinking water supply remains partially disrupted. Mobile connectivity, lost for nearly 24 hours, was reestablished by 3 PM. The Lachung road, closed due to a cloudburst, was reopened later in the evening.

Search Operations to Resume When Weather Clears

Mangan District Collector Anant Jain, who is overseeing relief efforts on-site, confirmed that the search for the missing tourists will resume once weather conditions improve. Authorities have recovered four identity cards and six mobile phones from the riverbank near the accident site, which are being used to identify the missing individuals.

Public Advisory

Officials have urged tourists and locals to avoid traveling until all roads are cleared and safety is ensured. The situation remains critical, with continuous rainfall hampering relief and rescue operations.