Sikkim: Landslide Partially Blocks Teesta and Chyakoong Rivers in Mangan; Officials On High Alert

MANGAN, SIKKIM (September 6) — A massive landslide overnight in North Sikkim’s Mangan district has partially obstructed the flow of the Teesta and Chyakoong rivers, prompting authorities to place downstream settlements on high alert. 

MANGAN

The hill collapse occurred during the intervening night of September 5 and 6 along a newly cut section of the Naga–Tosa Road in the Naga Forest area, opposite the Theng Tunnel in the Chungthang subdivision. Debris slid directly into the confluence of the two rivers, temporarily obstructing water movement and causing partial damming.

Ground Situation & Operational Status

According to officials from the Mangan District Administration and local police, both rivers continue to maintain a partial flow through the debris field.

Fatalities & Casualties: No loss of life or injuries has been reported. Property damage is currently being evaluated.

River Flow: Water levels at the Sankalang and Phidang monitoring outposts remain near normal levels, though the river water has turned noticeably muddy.

Precautionary Measures: The Police Control Room has alerted low-lying downstream settlements. Residents have been advised to stay away from the riverbanks and avoid unnecessary travel through vulnerable areas.

Official Response & Helplines

Personnel from the Chungthang and Theng police outposts are conducting continuous ground monitoring near the slide zone. Meanwhile, the Sikkim State Disaster Management Authority (SSDMA) has released Emergency Control Room helplines for public assistance:

• State Emergency Operations (SSDMA): 03592-201145 / 03592-202461 / 03592-205256

• DDMA Mangan: 03592-281007

• DDMA Gangtok: 03592-204995

• DDMA Namchi: 03595-263009

Officials stated that a full technical assessment of the landslide area is underway, and detailed updates will be issued once the structural stability of the natural blockage is confirmed.