Guwahati: A major landslide struck the Naga–Tosa Road in North Sikkim’s Naga Forest area on the night of September 5 and 6, partially blocking the Teesta and Chyakoong rivers and prompting authorities to intensify surveillance along the river belt.
According to the District Administrative Centre, Mangan, authorities were alerted to the incident by the district police and Chungthang Sub-Division Police. A large section of hillside along a new road cutting on the Naga-Tosa Road, opposite the Theng Tunnel and close to the confluence of the Teesta and Chyakoong rivers, reportedly collapsed.
The landslide temporarily disrupted the flow of both rivers, with the Teesta partially blocked following the collapse. The river has since resumed its normal flow, although water has accumulated in sections of both the Teesta and Chyakoong. Both rivers continue to flow through the affected stretch.
No casualties or injuries have been reported so far. The district administration is assessing the site to determine whether the landslide has caused any damage to property.
Police personnel from Chungthang CP/PS and those stationed at Theng CP are maintaining a continuous watch over the affected area. Authorities are also monitoring river levels at Sankalang OP and Phidang OP, where water levels remain normal, though the water has been reported to be muddy.
Officials at both monitoring points have been instructed to keep a close watch on any changes in river levels and immediately communicate significant developments to the concerned authorities.
As a precautionary measure, the Police Control Room has also been alerted and directed to warn vulnerable settlements in the lower reaches, particularly in view of the water accumulation caused by the landslide.
The Mangan district administration continues to monitor the landslide site and the Teesta river belt. A further assessment will be conducted at the site, following which additional updates will be issued.