Landslides, rain wreak havoc in Sikkim; at least six dead, 1,500 tourists stranded

Heavy rain and landslides have caused widespread devastation in Sikkim, leaving one person dead and five others missing. (PTI)

The Teesta River has overflowed, inundating the Melli Stadium in South Sikkim and leaving many people homeless. (PTI)

Landslides have damaged roads and bridges in Sikkim, including the vital road connecting Upper Gyathang and Tarag villages in Mangan district to the district headquarters. (PTI)

The landslides on National Highway 10 have cut off North Sikkim from the rest of the country, making it difficult to access the region. (PTI)

Sikkim Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang said, “Efforts are underway to provide every possible support to the victims and affected families, including recovery assistance, temporary settlement, and the provision of basic needs. The state government stands firmly with the victims of this unfortunate incident, pledging the utmost support to the bereaved families and all those affected and displaced by the landslides” (PTI)

The India Meteorological Department has forecast widespread moderate rainfall and thunderstorms in North Bengal, with a red alert issued for Jalpaiguri, Alipurduar, and Cooch Behar districts. (ANI)

Kolkata is expected to witness consistent rain and winds from Friday to Monday, with partly cloudy skies and thunderstorms possible. (ANI)

Sikkim Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang has directed the North district administration, the police and officials of other departments to ensure a swift response to the devastation. (ANI)

The state government is yet to determine the extent of the damage and the number of casualties. In October last year, a glacial lake outburst flood in North Sikkim had claimed over 100 lives. (ANI)