Gangtok: Sikkim’s tryst with the early monsoon has turned perilous, with the Teesta River roaring to life following relentless downpours, significantly hampering rescue efforts for nine individuals still missing after their tourist vehicle plummeted into the churning waters. The incident, which occurred near Chubombu in Mangan district on May 29, saw a vehicle carrying eleven people plunge nearly 1,000 feet, with only two fortunate souls rescued thus far.
The meteorological department has painted a grim picture for the state, issuing a red alert for Mangan district today, anticipating heavy to very heavy rainfall. An orange alert also stands for the next 24 hours across Gyalshing, Namchi, Soreng, Gangtok, and Pakyong districts, indicating widespread heavy rains are on the cards, further complicating an already challenging situation.
Mangan district’s Superintendent of Police, Sonam Detchu Bhutia, confirmed on Saturday that rescue operations have entered their second day, albeit under increasingly difficult circumstances. The ill-fated vehicle, carrying a group of tourists including six from Odisha, two from Tripura, two from Uttar Pradesh, and the local Sikkimese driver, remains submerged and stuck in debris, resisting all attempts at recovery. “We did not find any bodies near it,” SP Bhutia informed ANI, highlighting the desperate nature of the search.
The overnight downpour, intensified by a cloudburst in the upper reaches, has led to a four-meter surge in the Teesta’s water level, transforming the usually picturesque river into a raging torrent. The torrential rains have also caused widespread damage, with roads broken at multiple junctures, severely impeding access to the affected areas. Deputy Commissioner, Sub-Divisional Magistrate, and Sub-Divisional Police Officer are on the ground, directing continuous search operations amidst the challenging weather and terrain.
Adding to the woes, landslides have wreaked havoc in North Sikkim, particularly in Theeng and Chungthang areas, causing extensive damage to property. A rescue volunteer from the Tourism Department, Anand Gurung, articulated the logistical nightmare, stating that roads are blocked for the next 7-8 kilometers, making it impossible for backup teams to reach the primary rescue sites. “Any vehicle cannot pass from here as of now,” Gurung added, underscoring the severity of the blockades.
In light of the escalating situation, the India Meteorological Department has issued a strong advisory to citizens, urging them to avoid all non-essential travel, remain indoors, and maintain a safe distance from riverbanks and vulnerable slopes. The coming hours are expected to test the resilience of Sikkim and its rescue teams as they battle against nature’s fury to find the missing and restore normalcy.
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