What Happened in Sikkim? Four Lives Lost in Landslide!

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Four individuals lost their lives in the Sikkim landslide.
- Three persons are still unaccounted for.
- Rescue operations are ongoing, with significant challenges due to weather.
- Authorities urge caution for those in landslide-prone regions.
- The incident highlights the risks associated with the monsoon season in Sikkim.
Gangtok, Sep 12 (NationPress) Tragically, a recent landslide in Upper Rimbi, located in the Yangthang Constituency of West Sikkim, has resulted in the loss of at least four lives and left three individuals unaccounted for. This devastating event occurred at midnight, as reported by local officials on Friday.
As per Geyzing Superintendent of Police Tshering Sherpa, three victims were killed instantly when the landslide obliterated numerous homes in the area.
The deceased have been identified as Bhim Prasad Limboo (53), his sister Anita Limboo (46), his son-in-law Bimal Rai (50), and his seven-year-old granddaughter Anjal Rai.
In a commendable effort, rescuers managed to extract two women alive during an overnight operation involving police, Sashastra Seema Bal (SSB) personnel, State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) teams, and local community members.
These rescuers built a temporary bridge using tree logs across the flooded Hume River to reach those trapped. The injured women were transported to the District Hospital in Geyzing. Unfortunately, one succumbed to her injuries, while the other remains in critical condition, as per hospital reports.
Bhim Hang Limboo, the Minister for Buildings, Housing, and Labour, who is also the local MLA, arrived at the scene around 2 a.m. to oversee the rescue efforts.
He stated that relentless rainfall and damaged access roads have complicated operations, but collaborative efforts have enabled the evacuation of victims.
“The ongoing downpour presents significant challenges, yet all departments are united in their mission to rescue survivors and provide immediate assistance,” the minister emphasized.
Rescue operations continue as teams search for the remaining three missing individuals.
Despite the deployment of heavy machinery, officials acknowledge that the unstable ground and persistent rain create formidable challenges.
Authorities are advising residents in landslide-prone regions to remain vigilant and relocate to safer areas if necessary.
With the India Meteorological Department predicting additional rainfall in the upcoming days, the state government has directed all district administrations to maintain heightened alertness.
Landslides frequently occur in Sikkim during the monsoon, but officials remarked that this incident was exceptionally severe due to the abrupt collapse of a significant portion of the hillside, which resulted in flash flooding in the river below.