50 killed in Sikkim landslides

Altogether 40 bodies were recovered and identified from the debris by rescue workers comprising army personnel, para military forces, police, voluntary organisations and students. Around 5000 families were affected by the landslides.

Fourteen buildings collapsed totally and three partially. A five-storeyed building also collapsed, killing former chief minister B B Gurung’s daughter-in-law and two grand children. Over 2000 persons took shelter at relief camps opened at Whitehall, the Palzor Stadium, the Siche General High School, cinema halls and community centres.

Chief Minister Pawan Kumar Chamling, who air-dashed from New Delhi, announced Rs 50,000 for families of the 50 killed and Rs 20,000 for the each of the injured.“Rescue and relief work is progressing on a war-footing, but it is not at all satisfactory,” Chamling told mediapersons at Bagdogra before leaving for the state capital with Chief Secretary K S Rao and Finance Minister Ram Lepcha.

Hospital authorities had been asked to provide the best possible treatment for the injured, and there would be no financial constraints, said Chamling. He said the loss amounted to Rs 100 crore and Sikkim would ask for Central assistance. He added that Union Agriculture Minister Chaturanan Misra had assured all help on behalf of the Centre.