State government suspends all land routes in Sikkim amid crisis

A tragic incident in Sikkim has claimed the life of a 40-year-old woman and left several others critically injured when their vehicle was struck by massive boulders. The accident occurred near Sisney, at the 10th Mile in Makha, as they traveled from Lingee in South Sikkim to Singtam. The injured were swiftly transported to the nearest hospital for urgent medical care. The severity of the landslide has raised significant concerns about the safety of travel in the region.

Sikkim has been grappling with severe landslides in recent days, resulting in the closure of National Highway 10 at multiple points. This closure effectively isolates the Himalayan state from the rest of the country, as the highway serves as a vital lifeline connecting Sikkim to neighboring West Bengal.In response to the ongoing crisis, the state government has taken immediate action, suspending all land routes, airports, and helicopter services for the next three days. This measure aims to prioritize the safety of residents and travelers while emergency services work tirelessly to clear blocked routes and provide assistance to those affected.

To streamline relief efforts, a dedicated war room has been established, with Chief Minister Prem Singh Golay personally overseeing operations to ensure efficient allocation of resources and timely assistance to affected residents. The war room collaborates closely with various government departments and agencies to address the multifaceted challenges posed by the landslides. Amidst the emergency, reports indicate that stocks of the Food Corporation of India (FCI) in Jorethang, South Sikkim, are nearly depleted, raising concerns about food security in the region. Efforts are underway to replenish stocks and ensure essential supplies reach the affected areas promptly.