Continuous rainfall triggered a major landslide in a Sikkim village on Thursday night, damaging several houses and government quarters as debris swept towards residential areas, causing extensive property damage. While no casualties have been reported so far. authorities have begun assessing the damage.

The incident occurred in Rimbi village in Sikkim’s Gyalshing district.

Sikkim Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang termed the situation “serious” and authorities urged residents to remain vigilant amid concerns that several houses could be swept away. Friday’s weather forecast indicated the likelihood of more rain in the state.

#WATCH | Sikkim | A major landslide in the Rimbi area has left more than 30 houses affected. The incident was triggered by heavy mudslides and debris coming down from the upper slopes, sending large quantities of mud, rocks and other debris towards the lower areas

(Video source:… pic.twitter.com/5rhBlSoiTB

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The incessant downpour has made the soil along the mountain slopes unstable. This has sparked panic among locals that a much larger landslide could occur at any moment. With several houses directly in the landslide’s path, residents have begun moving essential belongings from their houses.

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“The landslides have disrupted regional connectivity, forcing commuters to navigate mud-covered roads at great personal risk. Residents fear that if the rainfall intensifies, the soil will loosen further, increasing both the scale and momentum of the landslides,” a local said.

Stay vigilant, follow advisories: CM Tamang

In a post on X, CM Tamang said, “Deeply saddened and concerned by the situation in Rimbi, Gyalshing district, following the severe landslides last night. The situation remains serious, and the safety and well-being of the people continue to be our foremost priority.”

He added that directions have been issued to the authorities to remain on high alert, closely monitor the situation, and take every possible measure to ensure the safety and security of the public. “I understand the deep distress and uncertainty being faced by the residents, especially as the difficulties have persisted from the very beginning. My thoughts and prayers are with every family affected,” he said.

Advising locals to stay vigilant and follow the advisories, Tamang said the government was closely monitoring the situation and would continue to take all necessary steps to protect people.

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Officials conduct damage assessment

The District Disaster Management Authority (DDMA), Gangtok, has launched an extensive damage assessment following rain-related incidents across the district.

A multi-agency team led by Kabi Tingda MLA Tshering T Bhutia, along with the OSD to the MLA, councillors, DDMA officials, Roads & Bridges Department engineers, the Ranka Block Development Officer and revenue surveyors, inspected several affected locations on Wednesday and Thursday.

The teams assessed areas hit by landslides, road blockages, mud and debris flows and damage to residential structures.

Among the locations inspected were stretches of the Luing-Ranka Highway near 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.

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Authorities said several road stretches remain blocked, affecting vehicular movement. Public infrastructure has also been damaged, including the Sewage Treatment Plant at Sichey. Debris accumulation near the Enchey School 33/11 kV Switching Station has been identified as a potential hazard.

As a precaution, tarpaulins have been placed over vulnerable slide zones to prevent further rainwater seepage. The District Collector and DDMA Chairman have directed the concerned departments to clear roads and debris, restore connectivity, assess the damage and provide assistance to affected residents.

Authorities have advised people to avoid unnecessary travel through landslide-prone areas and remain alert, particularly at night. Residents living near unstable slopes have been asked to watch for cracks, slope movement and falling debris and report any warning signs immediately.

(With ANI Inputs)