A Gyalshing landslide situation has intensified in Sikkim’s Gyalshing district after fresh landslide activity and heavy rainfall forced the evacuation of 161 people from vulnerable areas of Rimbi and Singlitam. The evacuation has been carried out as a precautionary measure, with district authorities and disaster management teams continuing relief, restoration and monitoring operations in the affected areas.
Fresh rainfall worsens landslide threat
The latest situation follows landslide incidents reported in Singlitam and Rimbi from September 12. Continued rainfall has increased the risk of further slope movement and flooding in vulnerable locations.
According to updates from the Sikkim State Disaster Management Authority (SSDMA), 128 people from 28 houses in Rimbi were evacuated after fresh landslide activity and heavy rainfall affected the area. The families were moved to the Rimbi Gram Panchayat Kendra as a precaution.
The evacuation was ordered after the district administration assessed conditions in the affected area. Several houses and poultry units suffered fresh damage following flooding on September 14.
At Singlitam, more than 33 people, including elderly residents and children, are staying at a relief centre. Food and essential relief supplies are being provided by the district administration.
161 evacuated as Gyalshing landslide risk grows
The combined evacuation from the affected locations brings the number of people moved to safer places to 161. The continuing Gyalshing landslide threat has prompted authorities to maintain close surveillance of vulnerable households and affected infrastructure.
At Rimbi, landslide debris has accumulated along the Kholsa stream. Rainwater has carried debris downstream towards the village, increasing concerns for homes located along the watercourse. Reports also indicate that an RCC bridge has been washed away and the Rimbi River has changed its course amid the recent flooding and debris flow.
The developments have added to concerns in an area that has experienced repeated landslide activity in recent weeks.
Relief camp operating at Singlitam
A relief centre is functioning at Singlitam Ward for seven directly affected households. More than 33 residents are currently accommodated there, with priority being given to vulnerable people, including children and elderly residents.
The district administration has also arranged relief assistance for affected families. During his September 15 visit to the Rimbi-Singlitam area, Gyalshing District Collector-cum-Magistrate Tenzing D Denzongpa interacted with affected families and local residents at the relief camp.
Officials discussed concerns raised by residents and reviewed the assistance being provided. Relief cheques were also distributed to some affected individuals during the visit.
Roads and connectivity remain a concern
The landslides have also affected road connectivity in the region. The Roads and Bridges Department has been carrying out debris clearance and restoration work to keep routes open and facilitate movement.
Earlier this month, a major landslide at Rimbi disrupted the Geyzing-Pelling-Yuksom route, also known as State Highway-27. A large volume of debris and water from Siksa Khola damaged the road. The 72nd Battalion of the Sashastra Seema Bal deployed its Rescue Relief Team to assist the district administration with debris clearance and restoration.
The authorities had said temporary restoration could take several days depending on site conditions, while permanent reconstruction of a damaged road and bridge section could take several months.
Authorities maintain close monitoring
District officials have continued inspections of the affected areas since the latest incidents. The administration has directed concerned departments to monitor vulnerable locations and households and take precautionary measures if further ground movement is detected.
The response involves multiple agencies, including the district administration, Roads and Bridges Department, Forest Department, Police, Disaster Management Authority, panchayat representatives and security personnel.
The priority remains the safety of residents, restoration of essential connectivity and delivery of relief to families affected by the landslides and flooding.
With rainfall continuing to pose a risk, authorities are keeping a close watch on Rimbi and Singlitam. Residents in vulnerable locations have been shifted to safer areas, while restoration teams continue work on roads and other damaged infrastructure. The latest evacuation underscores the continuing need for caution as the Gyalshing landslide threat remains active across affected parts of the region.