At least 161 people have been evacuated from vulnerable settlements in Sikkim's Gyalshing district following incessant rainfall, flash flooding, and fresh landslides, district officials confirmed on Wednesday, 16 September. The evacuations mark one of the larger precautionary displacement operations in the region this monsoon season.

Scale of the Evacuation

At Rimbi, 128 people from 28 households were relocated to the Rimbi Gram Panchayat Kendra as a precautionary measure after landslides and flooding significantly heightened risks to residential settlements. The situation remains particularly alarming around Mandir Point, where fresh landslides have been reported in recent days.

Separately, at Singlitam, seven families comprising more than 33 people were moved to a designated relief shelter. The shelter is currently housing elderly residents and children, with food and essential supplies being provided by local authorities.

Infrastructure Damage and Debris Threat

Debris has accumulated along the Nik Kholsa stream, with debris-laden water flowing towards Rimbi village during periods of heavy rainfall and posing a direct threat to houses along the stream's course. According to the district administration, the debris accumulation has disrupted the natural flow of the watercourse, raising serious concerns over a possible sudden release of water and debris — a phenomenon commonly described as a glacial lake or debris outburst.

The RCC bridge at Rimbi has been washed away due to the surge in water and debris flow. Compounding the crisis, the main Rimbi River has altered its course and begun eroding the roadside embankment. Notably, the main road in the area was completely washed away as far back as 15 May, and authorities are now working to restore connectivity by constructing a Bailey bridge at a higher elevation.

Impact on Local Services

The Rimbi Integrated Child Development Services (ICDS) Centre, situated below the expanding landslide zone, has also been inundated. The district administration has directed the concerned department to assess the feasibility of relocating the centre to a safer site, given the persistent risk to the structure and those using it.

Alerts and Advisory

The Sikkim State Disaster Management Authority (SSDMA) has urged residents of Singlitam, Rimbi, and other at-risk locations to remain on high alert as rainfall continues. Authorities have specifically advised people to stay away from active landslide zones and stream corridors during heavy rain, warning of potential hazards from sudden flooding and debris movement.

This comes amid a broader pattern of monsoon-related devastation across Sikkim, which has seen recurring landslide and flood events in recent years, including the catastrophic glacial lake outburst flood of October 2023 that claimed dozens of lives. The district administration says it is continuing to monitor conditions and coordinate protective measures for all affected communities.