Gangtok: The Dzongu Phidang Bailey Bridge in Mangan district, Sikkim, has suffered severe damage, cutting off vital connectivity to the Dzongu region and the popular tourist destinations of Lachung and Lachen. The collapse has left both locals and tourists struggling, forcing them to take longer alternative routes.
According to local sources, the bridge is no longer safe for vehicular movement due to significant structural damage. While the cause of the collapse is yet to be confirmed, authorities are expected to prioritize repair efforts to restore connectivity as soon as possible.
The bridge served as a critical lifeline for residents and businesses in the region, making its collapse a major setback for transportation and local trade.
This incident follows another bridge collapse in North Sikkim just a month ago. On February 11, the Sangkalang Bailey Bridge—which was built just a year ago—collapsed into the Teesta River while a truck was crossing. The vehicle managed to cross safely, but the 60-meter-long bridge, constructed by the Border Roads Organization (BRO) under the Trishakti Corps, had to be completely shut down. The bridge had been inaugurated on January 1, 2025, replacing an older structure that was destroyed by the Teesta River in June 2024.
The collapse of the Sangkalang bridge severely impacted travel between Mangan and Upper Dzongu, forcing commuters to take alternative routes that added over 90 minutes to their journey. With the newly damaged Dzongu Phidang Bailey Bridge, transportation challenges in North Sikkim have worsened, particularly for tourists traveling to Lachung and Lachen—two of the region’s most scenic destinations.
Authorities are now under increasing pressure to speed up restoration work and ensure the structural integrity of Sikkim’s key bridges to prevent further disruptions.
Read More: Sikkim Governor and CM Celebrate Holi at Gangtok’s MG Marg, Emphasizing Unity and Harmony