PTI, Gangtok, 01.12.24 : The death toll in the bus accident near the West Bengal-Sikkim border rose to seven on Sunday as another injured person succumbed to his injuries, police said.
The deceased has been identified as Jaimuddin Ansari, a construction labourer hailing from West Bengal.
He was undergoing treatment at STNM Hospital in Gangtok, and died on Sunday morning.
Ansari was among 15 people who were critically injured in the accident that took place between Andheri and Atal Setu, about 1 km from the Rangpo border, around 3 pm on Saturday.
Five people died on the spot, and two later succumbed to their injuries.
The private bus, heading to Gangtok from Siliguri, veered off NH-10 and crash-landed on the bank of Teesta River, said SP of West Bengal’s Kalimpong district, Srihari Pandey.
The deceased have been identified as Jaimuddin (Jamiruddin) Ansari (from Karimtala Koshanganj Bihar), Ikbal Hassan from Kolkata, Ajay Tamang from (Samsing) Jaldakha, Indrajit Singh from Siliguri, Gopal Prasad from Gangtok and Julu (Juni) Kumari from Rangpo, while one body remains unidentified (Sujit Das from Madhyapara Jalpaiguri).
Sikkim Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang expressed condolences over the accident.
In a social media post, he said, “Deeply saddened to learn about the tragic bus accident that occurred near Bhotey Bhir. I extend my heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families who have lost their loved ones in this devastating incident. May the departed souls rest in eternal peace. My thoughts and prayers are with the injured and their families, wishing them strength, comfort, and a swift recovery.” The bodies have been taken to STNM Hospital in Gangtok for post-mortem examination, following which the mortal remains will be handed over to their respective families.
Many injured are also being treated at Central Referral Hospital, Manipal.
The Sikkim government has stated that all the injured persons would be treated for free in the Himalayan state.
KalimNews (with inputs from PIB), November 7, 2024 : In a remarkable achievement for the vibrant film community in Sikkim, Tribeny Rai’s debut feature film Shape of Momos has been selected for the prestigious Work-in-Progress (WIP) Lab at the International Film Festival of India (IFFI) 2024.
The announcement, made by Film Bazaar, highlights Rai as one of the emerging voices in South Asian cinema, poised to bring a unique perspective to the global stage. The WIP Lab, part of the National Film Development Corporation of India’s (NFDC) Film Bazaar, is renowned for shaping the future of independent cinema, and Rai’s selection marks a significant milestone in her career.
Shape of Momos, a Nepali-language film produced by Rai’s production house, Dalley Khorsani Productions, is set against the backdrop of Sikkim and tells the poignant story of Bishnu, a woman navigating the complexities of a patriarchal society alongside her multi-generational family of women. The film explores themes of identity, freedom, and the cultural challenges faced by modern women in traditional communities.
The Film Bazaar Work-in-Progress Lab provides selected filmmakers with the rare opportunity to present their rough cuts to a panel of distinguished mentors from the international film industry. These mentors, including renowned film festival directors, producers, and critics, offer invaluable feedback to refine the films before their final release. Rai’s participation in this lab offers her the chance to elevate Shape of Momos through expert guidance, post-production resources, and access to key industry contacts.
Rai, who hails from Nandok, near Gangtok, has long been a passionate advocate for women’s voices in cinema. Her short films, such as Memory of a Heart and Yathawat, have earned recognition, with Memory of a Heart winning the Best Short Film Award at the Northeast Film Festival and the Audience Choice Award at the Women’s Voices Now Film Festival in California. In 2019, Rai also represented India and bagged second prize in the “short film idea” category at the 37th Fajr International Film Festival (FIFF) 2019, in Tehran. Tribeny Rai and Abhishek Chettri represented as part of the Indian delegation at the prestigious 29th Busan International Film Festival 2024 in South Korea. Her experience in short-form filmmaking, coupled with her deep understanding of gender dynamics in her community, informs her powerful narrative in Shape of Momos. Her other short film Chori (Chhori), Last Rites from Sikkim were screened in the Northeast cinema festival ‘Fragrances from the North East’ at New Delhi during August 2021. To name a few of her other films are Sikkim Soccer Girls, Just like a son (under completion which stars Gaumaya Gurung from Nepal and Shyamashree Sherpa from Sikkim),
Speaking on her selection for the Work-in-Progress Lab, Rai expressed her excitement about the opportunity to refine her film under the guidance of industry experts. “The lab’s support, especially in post-production and technical assistance, will be crucial in bringing our film to its fullest potential. I’m particularly excited about the access to producers, distributors, and festival programmers that the lab provides,” said Rai. “This feedback will be invaluable for shaping the final version of the film and increasing its visibility at international festivals.”
The Shape of Momos team is eager to leverage the lab’s platform to attract global attention, with plans to premiere the film in international film festivals before its scheduled release in 2025.
A Journey from Sikkim to the Global Film Stage
Tribeny Rai’s cinematic journey began after completing a diploma in direction and screenplay writing from the esteemed Satyajit Ray Film and Television Institute in Kolkata in 2015. Since then, she has made a mark with her short films and documentaries, focusing on issues such as women’s empowerment and social justice. Rai has also taught film studies and scriptwriting at Sikkim University, nurturing the next generation of filmmakers.
Shape of Momos is not just a personal project for Rai; it’s also a reflection of her experiences growing up in a society where gender discrimination was part of everyday life. In an earlier interview with Roots and Leisure (Sept 2018), she spoke about how her own upbringing in a predominantly male-dominated society shaped her outlook on life and filmmaking. “I grew up in a household where my mother fought against societal expectations and gender biases. These experiences have deeply influenced the stories I tell through my films,” Rai said.
While filmmaking as a profession often poses challenges for women, Rai is determined to continue creating films that explore the complexities of identity and gender. “Filmmaking may be a male-dominated industry, but cinema as an art form transcends gender. My films are deeply personal, and they are meant to reflect not just my own experiences but those of many women who face similar struggles,” she added.
Her work, which often tackles issues such as gender inequality, family dynamics, and the challenges of traditional societies, has found a wide audience, particularly in international film festivals. Rai’s Shape of Momos is expected to continue this tradition, shedding light on the cultural nuances of Sikkim while offering a universal narrative on the complexities of modern womanhood.
Excerpts from Roots and Leisure Interview:
In ther interview with Roots and Leisure, Rai opened up about her personal connection to gender issues, explaining how her childhood experiences shaped her as a filmmaker. “My parents raised four daughters in a predominantly male-dominated society. At a very tender age, during family gatherings, I had my first-hand experience of gender discrimination. I have seen my mother struggle to send us to an English medium school and my father was mistreated for not having a son. Growing up, this deeply affected me and my outlook towards life but for a very long time, I wasn’t ready to accept or address such gender issues in my films.”
She continued, “Cinema is an art form that creates awareness for the world but it has to come from a very pure and honest place for that to happen effectively. I was taught that the most honest form of filmmaking is to make a film for yourself. So when I make a film, I am actually making it for myself, therefore it is very personal. Also, my experiences are best known to me and are specific to me and thus, they become especially personal by default.”
Reflecting on her journey as a woman filmmaker, Rai shared her thoughts on the challenges she faces. “It would be unfair for me to say that I haven’t had to struggle a little extra for being a woman in this profession. Both conscious and unconscious gender bias is rampant in most industries, but most of us aren’t aware of it. Filmmaking as a profession may discriminate but cinema as an art form doesn’t – One stops being a man or woman all the time, you just become a piece of life with thoughts and experiences,” she said in the interview.
“My mother is undoubtedly my biggest support system… People who know me personally know that I’m almost obsessed with her. Bijoy Gurung has been one of my best friends and a mentor to me since I interned under him at the daily newspaper Sikkim Express in 2009. My wellbeing and success have always been their priority and I draw my inspiration to create from both of them. My films are my babies but I could trade it for them,” she added.
The Work-in-Progress Lab: A Launchpad for Emerging Filmmakers
The Work-in-Progress Lab at IFFI is a platform that has helped propel the careers of several successful filmmakers in the South Asian film industry. Past participants include the makers of critically acclaimed films like Lipstick Under My Burkha, Ship of Theseus, and Shivamma, which went on to achieve international recognition.
This year, Shape of Momos joins an impressive list of six films selected for the lab, each reflecting diverse storytelling from young and emerging filmmakers. Beside Shape of Momos by Tribeny Rai (Nepali) from Sikkim the other five are Gaangshalik (Gaangshalik – River Bird) by Shakteedhar Bir (Bengali), Yerra Mandaram (The Red Hibiscus) by Mohan Kumar Valasala (Telugu), Kaatti Ri Raatti (Hunters Moon) by Ridham Janve (Gaddi, Nepali), Umal by Siddharth Badi (Marathi) and The Good, The Bad, The Hungry by Vivek Kumar (Hindi)
The lab’s dual format of online and offline sessions allows filmmakers to interact with mentors and fellow participants, fostering a creative exchange of ideas and offering opportunities for growth. For Rai, the lab represents a significant step in her journey as a filmmaker and a valuable opportunity to refine her craft before taking Shape of Momos to international audiences.
As Shape of Momos progresses through the Work-in-Progress Lab, Rai’s vision of bringing the voices of women from Sikkim to the global film stage is one step closer to reality. The success of this film not only promises to amplify Rai’s voice but also to shine a spotlight on the rich cultural heritage and emerging cinematic talent of the Himalayan region.
With the guidance and resources offered by the lab, Rai’s debut film is poised to make a lasting impact on the world of South Asian cinema, introducing a new and much-needed narrative from the hills of Sikkim to the global film community.
About Film Bazaar
Film Bazaar, an initiative by the National Film Development Corporation of India (NFDC), is a B2B platform designed to promote South Asian films to international and national markets. Its Work-in-Progress Lab, launched in 2008, has been instrumental in the success of numerous South Asian films, helping them achieve critical acclaim and widespread recognition in international film festivals.
Nanda Kirati Dewan, KalimNews, 22 September 2024, Gangtok (Sikkim) : Naina Subba from Arunachal Pradesh was crowned Sikkim Miss Limbu Season 3 on Sunday during a glittering traditional cultural and talent show in Gangtok. The grand finale of Miss Limbu Season 3 and Mr. Limbu Season 1 was held at Manan Kendra, in the gracious presence of Chief Guest, Cabinet Minister of Sikkim, Shri Bhim Hang Limboo, along with Sikkim Lok Sabha MP Dr. Indra Hang Subba, and Maneybung Dentam constituency MLA Sudesh Kumar Subba as Guests of Honour. In their addresses, they encouraged the youth to connect with their communities, stay rooted in their traditions, and explore their cultural heritage.
Contestants from all districts of Sikkim, as well as from West Bengal, Assam, and Arunachal Pradesh, participated in the prestigious event. Naina Subba from Arunachal Pradesh won the Miss Limbu title, while Rahul Limboo from Dikchu, East Sikkim, was crowned Mr. Limbu Season 1.
Organiser and CEO of Sikkim Miss Limbu Organisation, Binita Mabo Limbu, congratulated the 2024 winners, saying, “Naina Subba is blessed with beauty, talent, and grace. She truly shone throughout the competition and deservedly won the crown. We are confident she will continue to excel in her career as an entertainer and achieve brilliance in academics too.”
In addition, Samnima Limbu from Bhaluthang and Avril Limbu from Simboley, both from West Sikkim, were crowned 1st and 2nd Runners Up, respectively.
Speaking to this correspondent, Sikkim Miss Limbu 2024 Naina Subba Tungbahwngphe expressed her gratitude, saying, “I am indebted to my roots, our ancestors, and my immediate family, especially my Yuma (grandmother), who is the sole source of my energy. I must acknowledge and thank Taaghera Ningwaphumaang, our Yumaism goddess, for showering her blessings on me.”
She added, “Sikkim Miss Limbu 2024 was never my destination but a milestone in my journey of learning about our rich Yakthung/Limbu culture and traditions. Limbu folk tales, songs, and Himalayan raw music have always been my passions. I am blessed to have met so many humble souls on this journey who have helped me explore this world. The Limboo Mahasabha in Assam provided me with a platform to perform, and the Sikkim Miss Limbu Organisation gave me the space to spread my wings. Coming from a small hamlet, Wakro Tezu in Arunachal Pradesh, with a negligible number of Limbus, I found a playground to learn and grow in the neighboring Tinsukia district of Assam.”
Naina also expressed her gratitude to the Yakthung community of Assam, saying, “A huge hug and a big thank you to the Yakthungs of Assam for their immense support in my cultural journey. I assure myself that this connection will continue. I aim to diversify my content creation on similar topics besides music videos, documentaries, and singing, all alongside my academic pursuits.”
At the event, CEO Binita Mabo Limbu, speaking to reporters, congratulated all participants and said, “We at the Sikkim Miss Limbu Organisation are proud of each of you and your contributions in representing our rich Yakthung/Limbu culture. We look forward to seeing you carry this forward and represent our tribe on national and international stages. May all the contestants continue to shine and inspire others in their journeys ahead.”
PTI, GANGTOK, JULY 12, 2024 : The Sikkim government declared the second and fourth Saturdays of every month as a holiday for its employees. In a circular issued by the Department of Personnel on Thursday, the state government said it would give additional time to the employees to rest.
The government also asked its employees to strictly comply with the working hours, from 10am to 4.30 am.
“It has been seen that many government employees report for duty very late in the morning and leave office much before the scheduled time in the evening. This hampers the implementation of development-oriented policies and programmes.
Reporting late also causes undue harassment to the public who visit offices regularly for official works,” it said.
“Considering this, it is hereby ordered that all government employees should report for duty latest by 10 am and should remain in their respective offices till 4.30 pm,” it added.
Half-day casual leave would be deducted if an employee is found to have reported after 10.30 am or left the place of duty before 4.30 pm without valid official reasons, the circular said.
It also asked departmental heads to undertake surprise checking of the attendance of the employees.
PRAKASH ADHIKARI, EOI, GANGTOK, JUNE 26, 2024 : In a meeting with Union Minister for Jal Shakti Mr C.R Patil on Tuesday, Chief Minister of Sikkim Prem Singh Tamang highlighted the immense challenges faced by Sikkim following a sudden cloudburst on October 3 and 4, 2023, which led to a significant discharge in the Teesta River. This event brought in enormous debris, causing a substantial rise in the water level due to sedimentation, with the riverbed level rising by approximately eight to 10 metres and drastically altering the morphology of the river, he informed.
Emphasising the urgent need to strengthen the Teesta River banks, the Chief Minister called for appropriate River Training Works (RTW) along the alignment from Zeema to Melli. Implementing these RTWs would help mitigate the devastation from the river and prevent further disasters, he apprises.
The Chief Minister explained how the silt deposits had caused the river to swell, partially submerging low-lying areas and endangering lives and properties. Continuous heavy downpour during the monsoon has raised water levels dangerously, threatening to submerge the towns of Dikchu, Singtam, Rangpo, and Melli. Infrastructure such as road networks, jhora training works, and river protection walls had been severely damaged.
In light of these challenges, the Chief Minister requested the Ministry of JalShakti to execute a team of experts to study the morphology of river Teesta’s, assess the damage, and provide guidance, resources, and expert recommendations. The Union Minister asked officials to pay utmost heed to the proposal regarding the constitution of a team of experts to take care of immediate necessities and mitigation in regards to the rivers and glaciers of Sikkim
After the 2024 election results, I have had the realisation that electoral politics is simply not for me, he said
PTI, Gangtok, Jun 25 2024 : Indian football icon Bhaichung Bhutia on Tuesday announced that he was quitting politics, following his defeat in the recently held assembly elections in Sikkim.
Bhaichung, the vice president of the Sikkim Democratic Front (SDF), lost to SKM’s Rikshal Dorjee Bhutia in the Barfung seat, which marked his sixth electoral defeat.
He joined politics in 2014 when the ruling TMC in West Bengal named him as its candidate for the Darjeeling Lok Sabha seat. In 2018, he took the plunge into the political arena of his state by forming the Hamro Sikkim Party. Last year, he merged his party with the Pawan Chamling-led SDF.
“Firstly, I would like to congratulate Mr PS Tamang and the Sikkim Krantikari Morcha (SKM) for winning the assembly elections. The people of Sikkim have given them a resounding mandate and I hope the SKM govt will work to fulfil their promises and take Sikkim to greater heights across all sectors,” he said in a statement.
“After the 2024 election results, I have had the realisation that electoral politics is simply not for me. I am therefore quitting all forms of electoral politics with immediate effect,” he added.
After losing the Darjeeling Lok Sabha constituency to the BJP in 2014, the TMC fielded Bhutia as its candidate for the 2016 West Bengal assembly elections in the Siliguri seat, but he lost to the CPI(M). Following the formation of his party in 2018, he contested the 2019 Sikkim assembly elections from two seats but lost in both. He again unsuccessfully contested the by-election to the Gangtok assembly seat, which was held later that year.
He lost the recently held elections to the SKM by 4,346 votes.
Bhutia, the former Indian football captain, said he felt he had great ideas for the development of sports and tourism in Sikkim.
“…given a chance, I would have loved to implement and contribute to the growth of the state in a very honest and sincere way,” he said.
“Unfortunately it was not to be. I am certain there will be more people with better ideas to do so,” he said.
Bhutia said that his intention in politics was to do good for the people of the state and the country.
According to the last livestock census that was conducted in the country in 2019, the total population of stray dogs and stray cattle in India stood at 203.31 lakh
Vivek Chhetri, TT, Darjeeling, 24.06.24 : The Sikkim government has threatened to auction off stray animals if they are not claimed and tethered at home immediately.
According to the last livestock census that was conducted in the country in 2019, the total population of stray dogs and stray cattle in India stood at 203.31 lakh.
Given this all-pervasive problem in the country, the move by the Sikkim government is being appreciated.
The office of the additional director, animal husbandry and veterinary services (AH &VS), of Pakyong district in Sikkim has issued a public notice stating that of late, some cattle have been found roaming at large on the streets of Rangpo bazar and near NH10 in Rangpo nagar panchayat.
“It is found that these cattle have been left to roam on the streets by their owners,” a public notice issued by Dr A. Pradhan, additional director, AH &VS, department said.
The notice states that in the past few days, several incidents have been reported, wherein stray cattle have hindered traffic on the national highway and on busy streets. There have also been instances of animals being hit by speeding vehicles at night.
The department has asked the owners to claim the animals immediately and keep them on the owner’s premises, failing which the government would seize the animals.
If the owner claims the animal after it is seized, the “department of AH &VS and Rangpo Nagar Panchayat reserves the right to impose fines and penalties to recover the cost incurred thereof”
If no claims are made, the department plans to auction off the animals.
“If the owner(s) fails to claim the same, these animals will be auctioned off without further notice and the department of AH &VS and Rangpo Nagar Panchayat will not be held liable for any further action,” the notice states.
Owners who fail to take care of animals can be charged for committing an offence.
According to the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act, 1960, failure to provide animals with sufficient food, drink and shelter or abandoning them is a punishable offence.
Many individuals associated with animal welfare said the problem of stray animals was also a public health concern as animals could carry diseases which could be passed off to humans.
According to a written reply given by Parshottam Rupala, the then Union minister of fisheries, animal husbandry and dairying in the Lok Sabha on March 15, 2022, a total of 3,860 people died in the country between 2018 and 2020 bgecasue of attacks by animals.
YOWAN MOTHAY, EOI, KALIMPONG, JUNE 20, 2024 : The continuous rains in Sikkim and Kalimpong caused the water level of Teesta river to rise today which led to flooding the road to Darjeeling.
The construction work started by PWD a few days ago was also stopped today. Traffic has also been halted on this route. According to information provided by Kalimpong District Magistrate Balasubramanyam T, those flood affected families have been temporarily kept in a camp at Labarbote.
There are 31 flood affected families in the relief camp and they are being looked after by the Kalimpong district administration.
However people still living in their houses express fear of a water burial as Teesta swells. water levels rise.
Says a Malli resident, Mahendra Chowdhary: “There is an atmosphere of fear in Malli at night because all the buildings on Malli Road are on the edge of the Teesta River. I was awake till 3 am.
Life has become horrible,’’ he said. In the same way, the National Highway-10, which is considered the lifeline of Sikkim and Kalimpong has been damaged because of the rains.
Kalimpong district administration has restricted the movement of vehicles from 6 pm to 6 am at Malli Bridge, Ravi Jhoda and Likhuvir on National Highway-10 keeping in mind the safety of the people.
Vehicles going to Siliguri from Sikkim and Kalipong were often seen taking an alternate route to Siliguri through Lava.Traffic police personnel were deployed at Chitra and Ravijhoda for direction to vehicles.
KalimNews, Kalimpong, 20 June 2024 : Tara: the Lost Star, is finally being screened at Dream Theater in Kalimpong. The film was released across India, starting from Sikkim to the northeastern states and beyond, since June 14, 2024. Directed by Samten Bhutia, the film is co-produced by Sabitri Chettri and actor Shyama Shree Sherpa. It is presented by SaDa Productions in association with Passang Mintok Films. Several crew members including actor Shyama Shree Sherpa were present today at Kalimpong and addressed the press.
This film has made history as the first film from Sikkim to debut at the Marché Du Film, the official film market of the prestigious Cannes International Film Festival. The 77th Annual Cannes International Film Festival was attended by the actor cum producer Shyama Shree Sherpa.
Completed in about seven months, the film is 1.5 hours long. Tara: the Lost Star, was filmed against the breathtaking backdrop of Gnathang-Memenchu near Changu Lake in Sikkim. It encapsulates the essence of Sikkim’s natural beauty and cultural heritage, representing the creative synergy and cultural richness of the region.
The film features popular artists from Sikkim, Nepal, and Darjeeling. It is a Nepali-language feature film that offers a glimpse into the beliefs of the Himalayas and the vibrant culture of Sikkim. It is a social drama about the struggle between superstitious beliefs and medical science, and one woman’s fight for freedom from religious constraints.
Actors Shyama Shree Sherpa (Tara), Sushmita Bhujel (Manita), Nityam Bhattarai (Kale), Shashikala Pradhan (Sanmaya), Basanta Sharma (Kishor), Anand Gurung (Pema), Timothy Rai (Dhupaure) are from Sikkim, while Kiran Dahal (Suman) and Loonibha Tuladhar (Kopila) are from Nepal. Deoraj Sherpa (Agam), a well-known actor from Darjeeling, is also part of the team. Sikkim’s Prasant Rasaily and Pramod Karki contributed to the background score and cinematography, respectively.
Tara: the Lost Star, follows the journey of 21-year-old Tara, who resides in a scenic and secluded village near Gangtok, Sikkim. Since childhood, she has grappled with dissociative trance disorder, which frequently results in seizures. While her father advocates for medical treatment to alleviate her condition, her mother holds steadfastly to a contrasting belief.
Blinded by unfounded faith and prejudice, she perceives Tara as a reincarnation of the revered goddess “Mata,” a belief ingrained since Tara’s youth. Consequently, she seeks spiritual intervention from a shaman rather than embracing medical solutions. Tara finds herself torn between her parents’ divergent perspectives as she navigates the complexities of her existence.
A reserved individual by nature, Tara silently witnesses their disputes concerning her well-being, feeling powerless. However, her life takes an unexpected turn when her friend Manita provides unwavering support, and she discovers comfort and affection in her classmate, Suman. In this tumultuous environment, Tara begins to discover her voice for the first time.
Despite the village’s proximity to modern civilization, the film sheds light on a world often overlooked or misunderstood by outsiders.
The performances of its two lead actors, along with those of other supporting actors in this tale of a young couple’s struggles, are highly praised in the film Tara: the Lost Star. Not only the story but also the dialogue in the local language, and the cinematography played significant roles in it. Technically, the location, makeup, and lighting are well-managed and executed superbly in the film.
PTI, Gangtok, Jun 19, 2024 : The rescue operations in North Sikkim ended on Wednesday with the evacuation of the remaining 158 stranded tourists, a senior official said.
Mangan District Magistrate Hem Kumar Chettri said that all the 1,447 stranded tourists have been evacuated in the last three days. A total of 1,225 tourists were rescued on Tuesday and 64 on Monday.
“With the rescue of 158 tourists on the third and final day of the operation, we have evacuated all the 1,447 stranded tourists,” he said.
Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang said that the 1,447 tourists have been sent back to their respective destinations.
“The incessant rainfall from June 12-14, 2024, caused by a cloudburst in North Sikkim, had left a total of 1,447 tourists stranded in Mangan district… All of them have now been successfully evacuated and sent back to their respective destinations through extensive rescue operations,” he said.
The CM thanked all those who were involved in the rescue operation and to the tourists for their patience during the challenging time.
Chettri said the tourists, who were holed up in Lachung for several days, were evacuated to Mangan town via Chungthang.
Most of the tourists were transported to state capital Gangtok in vehicles provided by the transport department, Chettri said.
Besides the district administration and police, BRO, NDRF, SDRF, Travel Agents’ Association of Sikkim (TAAS), local panchayats and volunteers were involved in the rescue operation.
Mangan district is known for popular tourist spots like Gurudongmar Lake and Yumthang Valley.
At least six people have been killed in Sikkim due to landslides triggered by heavy rain over the last few days. The natural calamity has also damaged properties and disrupted power and food supplies and mobile networks in several areas, officials said.
Around 1,500 tourists, including some foreigners, were stranded in Lachung town due to the landslides.
The road network in Mangan district has become severely damaged, with the district magistrate ordering the closure of schools in 10 clusters of Mangan and Dzongu blocks till further orders.
The Border Roads Organisation has been working to clear the roads and restore connectivity.
PIB, 19 JUN 2024, Gangtok : Despite incessant rains and inclement weather the last batch of 150 tourists was evacuated from North Sikkim on 19 Jun. Trishakti Corps, responsible has been working relentlessly to assist the civil administration and locals in the evacuation of the 1200 tourists that got stranded in North Sikkim since 12/13 Jun 24.Due to incessant rains and landslides at a number of places, evacuation of the stranded tourists could begin only on the 17th. The tourists had to cross the sites of landslides on foot and travel in vehicles on the stretches in between wherever road connectivity existed.
Out of the 150 tourists that were evacuated on 19th Jun, many needed medical care & walking assistance during their evacuation. Three persons requiring urgent medical support were given treatment at Military Hospital and then safely moved on stretchers.The tourists were shifted utilising all resources including two wheelers and carried on backs.
Every year number of times due to sudden snowfall, excessive rainfall, landslides and road closure, the tourists get stranded in the border areas and then Army soldiers do their best to rescue the tourists, providing food, shelter, medical comfort and bringing them to safety.
Indian Army while guarding the borders in the Himalayas is always proactive in providing assistance to the tourists & local populations.
KalimNews, Kalimpong, 19 June 2024: The district administration of Kalimpong has imposed restrictions on all vehicular movement along NH10 during nighttime hours. In a notification issued today by Balasubramanian T, District Magistrate of Kalimpong, it has been announced that the movement of all vehicles, including heavy vehicles and small vehicles, is prohibited from 6 pm to 6 am, effective immediately until further notice.
The decision comes in response to significant damage caused by recent heavy rainfall near Melli Bridge, Rabi Jhora, and Likhu Veer along NH10. These measures are necessary to facilitate repairs and ensure the safety and security of the public.
However, the administration has allowed for the movement of heavy vehicles, including buses, from Seti Jhora to Rangpoo and vice versa via NH10 during daytime hours from 6 am to 6 pm until further notice. Similarly, small vehicles are permitted to travel this route from 6 am to 8 pm.
Additionally, it has been advised to maintain single-lane traffic at Bhalu Khola, Gareri Khola, Rabi Jhora, and Likhu bhir.
For diversions, small vehicles are recommended to take alternative routes from Rangpoo towards Siliguri via Munsong, 17 Mile, Algarah, Lava, and Gorubathan, operational round the clock. Heavy goods vehicles, buses, and small vehicles can use the Reshi-Pedong-Algarah-Lava-Gorubathan route to Siliguri and vice versa, also accessible 24/7.
Police (Traffic) will enforce necessary restrictions at Rangpoo Check post, Melli Bazaar, Chitrey, 29 Mile, and at the district border along NH10 to assist with the route diversions.
Around 1,200 tourists, including foreign visitors, are stranded in Mangan, the northern district along the China border, following landslides and flash floods on Thursday that have damaged roads and bridges
Avijit Sinha, TT, Siliguri, 17.06.24 : The Sikkim government has decided to evacuate by road on Tuesday the tourists stranded in Lachung and other northern areas of the state, with poor weather ruling out chopper rescue.
Around 1,200 tourists, including foreign visitors, are stranded in Mangan, the northern district along the China border, following landslides and flash floods on Thursday that have damaged roads and bridges.
“It was initially planned to airlift the tourists, as after the flash floods last October. However, because of bad weather, it’s not feasible to engage choppers. Therefore, the alternative option of evacuation by road has been planned for Tuesday,” a source in the state government said.
The tourists stuck in Lachung, a popular hotspot in north Sikkim, and neighbouring areas are to be brought in cars to Tung, around 18km from Mangan, the district headquarters.
“As there are multiple landslide zones from Tung to Mangan, they will be taken to Mangan on foot. From Mangan, vehicles will be arranged for their onward journey,” the source said.
Representatives of the Travel Agents Association of Sikkim (TAAS) and all travel agencies, particularly those that have customers stranded in north Sikkim, have been asked to reach Mangan on Monday.
“From Mangan, the travel agents who have sent tourists to north Sikkim will have the responsibility for further movement of the tourists…. If any travel agency ignores the directions, steps will be taken against it,” a TAAS representative said.
The tourists stuck in Mangan are facing hardship because of disruptions in power supply and the telecommunications network. “Around 360 of them are staying at a gurudwara in Chungthang. The gurudwara authorities have provided them with food and shelter,” a source said.
Samrat Sanyal, general secretary of the Himalayan Hospitality & Tourism Development Network, an apex body of tourism stakeholders in the region, said it was important that the evacuation of the tourists began on Monday.
“Four days have passed and they are still stuck in north Sikkim. Since it is not possible to use choppers unless the weather improves, it is pertinent to work on alternative options,” Sanyal said. “We hope a section of tourists will reach Mangan soon. We will extend the necessary help to them.”
As monsoon showers continue in Sikkim and sub-Himalayan Bengal, fresh landslides have damaged some stretches along NH10, the principal highway that connects Sikkim and Kalimpong with Siliguri and the rest of the country.
“The Kalimpong district administration has advised drivers not to take NH10 and instead travel along the Algara-Lava route to Siliguri and vice versa. As the rain has not stopped, there is always a risk of landslides or boulders falling on the road,” an official said.
With Sikkim-bound heavy vehicles forced to make detours since Thursday, bringing essential supplies to the state is taking more time.
On Sunday, the state food and civil supplies department formed a team “to check the stock of LPG cylinders and the inventory of essential items”, a source said.
“Retailers and wholesalers have been cautioned not to hoard essential items or raise food prices,” the source added.
Weather experts at the regional Met office in Gangtok said an alert had been sounded against heavy to very heavy rainfall (70mm to 200mm) in the Mangan and Namchi districts in the next 24 hours.
“The southwest monsoon is active over the region and is causing regular downpours,” an expert said.
Amitava Banerjee, MP, 16 June 2024, Darjeeling: The air evacuation of around 1,200 tourists (as per official records) from North Sikkim, especially Lachen did not take place as per schedule on Sunday owing to inclement weather.
Travel Agents Association of Sikkim (TAAS) has directed all travel agencies, especially those whose guests are stranded in North Sikkim, to reach Mangan in North Sikkim on Tuesday. This decision was made after the Dzomsa Pipon and Hotel Association, with the help of the minister and area MLA Samdup Lepcha, closely monitored the road status in Mangan district.
“As the road condition till Tung is favourable (an air evac is not possible), tourists will be evacuated till Tung and then onto Mangan on foot as there are 3 to 4 landslides enroute. From Mangan the respective travel agencies will have to take responsibility to tranship them to Gangtok,” stated Ramesh Basnet, president, TAAS.
Around 360 tourists are reportedly stranded and have been given refuge at the Chungthang Gurudwara. The Border Roads Organisation (BRO) is working on a war footing to restore the roads.
“Around 700 personnel and 20 excavators are deployed to address the issue of multiple landslides, ensuring faster communication to Mangan, North Sikkim,” stated a post from the spokesperson, Ministry of Defence.
As rains continued unabated, National Highway 10 was shut down for a few hours on Sunday with rock slides on the road at Likhubhir.
Though the debris were cleared and the road opened to vehicular traffic, the Kalimpong district administration and police made an appeal to vehicles traveling between Gangtok, Sikkim and Siliguri to use alternate routes via Kalimpong instead of taking risks of using the NH10, vulnerable to rock slides owing to the incessant rainfall.
At around 8:30 am on Sunday vehicles were diverted from Sikkim and Siliguri from the Rangpoo and Coronation Bridge respectively owing to boulder slides at Likhubhir. At around 1:30 pm the road opened up, with the debris being cleared. “As the falling of boulders is intermittent, for the general safety public are requested to avoid the NH10 and use the alternative routes,” stated Balasubramanian T, District Magistrate, Kalimpong.
The Kalimpong to Darjeeling road via Teesta Bazar, Lopchu is still closed. Meanwhile Raju Bista, MP, visited the flood affected areas of Teesta Bazar on Saturday. Bista stated that given the strategic significance of the region, particularly in terms of national security, he has requested for a central team to assess the situation and take necessary actions to fix the damages at the earliest.
“The Central government has allocated Rs 500 crore towards addressing the immediate repair and restoration of National Highway 10 (NH-10). Further, the Central government is preparing a DPR under the supervision of scientific and terrain experts for rebuilding NH-10 and expanding it by further 10 m, for which a budget of Rs 2000 crore will be additionally sanctioned,” claimed Bista in a media release.
“Raju Bista has to stop the blame game. When the flash flood had struck on October 4, 2023, the GTA had done everything possible. The regions have been voting for the BJP in the Lok Sabha elections for the past 20 years.
What did the BJP-led Central government do? They did not give any funds nor did they declare this as a national disaster,” stated Anit Thapa, chief executive, GTA.
SUJAL PRADHAN, EOI, GANGTOK, JUNE 16, 2024 : Chief Minister of Sikkim Prem Singh Tamang on Sunday called upon the Centre to manage the stretch of the National Highway 10 from Sevoke to Rangpo. His demand followed his visit to the border town of Melli on Saturday where he assessed the significant damage caused by flash floods and the Glacial Lake Outburst Flood of October 3 last.
Talking to newspersons, the Chief Minister highlighted the critical condition of the 50-kmstretch of NH 10 running along the banks of the Teesta River in West Bengal. “The road from Sevoke near Siliguri to the Rangpo border in Sikkim, although part of NH 10,is maintained by the West Bengal Government. While the funding is provided by the Union government, Sikkim does not receive the necessary support under state management,” Golay said.
The Chief Minister pointed out that, in contrast, the road from Rangpo to Gangtok was managed as a National Highway by Central agencies. This allowed for better maintenance and support. He stressed that the current condition of the stretch of the road under the management of West Bengal was in adequate; particularly in view of its strategic importance.
“This road is vital for Sikkim and the Indian army, given Sikkim’s strategic border position.
Heavy vehicles struggle on these precarious roads, causing a rise in goods prices due to detours through Darjeeling and Kalimpong districts,” Golay explained
ANI, Gangtok June 15, 2024 : Following the incessant rains and landslides in Sikkim, which claimed nine lives and left 1,200-1,400 tourists stranded in the Mangan district, State Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang announced an ex-gratia of Rs five lakh each to the families of deceased and promulgated that the government would re-build the destroyed homes.
In the last three days, Sikkim has witnessed two natural calamities: a landslide in Namchi district in which three people lost their lives, and similarly, a landslide happened on the intervening nights of June 12 and 13 in Mangan district in which six people lost their lives. Around 1,200-1,400 tourists are also stranded in the Mangan district of the state.
“This is a sad incident, six people have died in the Mangan district, and in Majuwa, due to landslide three have lost their lives and several are injured. Several houses have also been damaged. A total of 67 families have been relocated. I have informed the central government about the extensive losses and have requested immediate funds to aid our response”, CM Tamang said while speaking to ANI.
“With road closures and the inability to move heavy vehicles, we are facing a surge in food prices and commodity shortages. We are taking these matters very seriously and have sought help from the centre…We are providing Rs 5 lakhs in compensation to the families of the deceased. We will also rebuild the homes of those whose properties have been destroyed or swept away”, he added.
The Chief Minister, earlier in the day, also took stock of the flood-affected areas of Yangang and Melli in Namchi where he was seen interacting with the affected families.
In a post on ‘X’, the Chief Minister wrote, “During my official visit to the landslide-stricken areas of Majhua, Yangang, in the Namchi District today, I had several key objectives: to assess the damage, oversee the disbursement of relief materials, and provide financial assistance to the affected residents. I visited several of the worst-hit areas and personally interacted with the affected residents. Listening to their concerns, I offered words of encouragement and assured them of the government’s commitment to their rehabilitation. We provided food supplies, water, sanitation, medical aid, and shelters where necessary.”
Affirming the Sikkim government’s commitment, the CM added, “To support the immediate and long-term needs of the affected families, I handed over cheques to the victims. The financial aid was categorized for immediate relief, covering emergency expenses and daily necessities. I emphasized the government’s commitment to providing long-term support to the affected areas and outlined a multi-phase plan that includes infrastructure rehabilitation.”
“My visit to Majhua, Yangang, was a significant step in addressing the immediate needs of the victims and laying the groundwork for long-term rehabilitation. The disbursement of relief materials and financial aid has provided much-needed support to the affected residents, and our commitment to ongoing assistance has instilled hope and confidence in the community. The government will continue to monitor the situation closely and ensure that all necessary resources are mobilized to aid in the recovery and rebuilding process”, stated CM Prem Singh Tamang.
Meanwhile, after tourists from West Bengal have been stuck in Sikkim due to heavy rainfall and landslides, the Bengal government has opened a help desk in Rangpo to assist tourists stranded in North Sikkim.
Due to recent heavy rain and landslides in Sikkim, many tourists from West Bengal have been stranded in Sikkim. In order to assist the stranded tourists, a Tourist Facilitation Help Desk has been opened at Rangpo, an order by the Office of the District Magistrate of Kalimpong said.
The order further provided the contact numbers of the concerned staff for the stranded tourists. People can contact:
Rabi Biswakarma – 8768095881
Puspajeet Barman – 9051499096
A day earlier, Sikkim Chief Secretary Vijay Bhushan Pathak said that they have sent a requisition for Air Force helicopters for the evacuation of tourists.
“We have sent the requisition for Air Force helicopters on behalf of the Sikkim government. As soon as the weather becomes suitable for flying, the evacuation of tourists will start,” he said.
“Gratuitous relief is being given to the families of deceased people. For those who are severely injured, their treatment is going on in hospitals,” the Chief Secretary added.
Lachung, a town in the Mangan district of Sikkim, is currently facing a critical situation where 1,215 tourists are unable to leave due to heavy rain and road closures. C S Rao, Principal Secretary of Tourism and Civil Aviation, confirmed this today and stated that among the stranded tourists, 15 are foreigners with 10 from Bangladesh.
SNS | Siliguri | June 15, 2024 : Lachung, a town in the Mangan district of Sikkim, is currently facing a critical situation where 1,215 tourists are unable to leave due to heavy rain and road closures. C S Rao, Principal Secretary of Tourism and Civil Aviation, confirmed this today and stated that among the stranded tourists, 15 are foreigners with 10 from Bangladesh. However, Mr. Rao assured that all tourists are safe and secure. The local authorities have advised the stranded tourists to remain in their current locations for their own safety.
The Office of the Chief Secretary of Sikkim Government is in discussions with the relevant ministry to arrange for the airlifting of all tourists, as long as weather conditions permit. The Sikkim authorities have also devised a plan to transport them by land in the event that conditions improve. The Chief Minister of Sikkim, Prem Singh Tamang, led a high-level meeting at Mintokgang today to address the recent disaster that has significantly impacted the state. The main focus of this meeting was to strategize and coordinate our response efforts in order to restore normality and ensure the safety and well-being of the residents. During the meeting, officials presented detailed reports on the extent of the damages, with a particular emphasis on critical road disruptions and immediate challenges faced by affected individuals.
They evaluated the destruction of infrastructure, particularly key roads and bridges essential for transportation and relief operations. Meanwhile, engineers from the Irrigation and Waterways department in West Bengal are closely monitoring the situation following a weather forecast predicting heavy rainfall in Mangan and surrounding areas in Sikkim within the next 24 hours. The flow of water from the Teesta river has resulted in partial impacts on Kalimpong, Darjeeling, and Jalpaiguri. In response, the authorities of the Teesta Barrage Project have systematically opened almost all gates. Chief Engineer Debasish Moulik reported a discharge rate of 3,500 cubic metres per second yesterday. Kalimpong, Alipurduar, and Jalpaiguri districts are expected to receive heavy (7- 11 cm) to very heavy (12-20 cm) rainfall between 14 and 18 June, with Alipurduar potentially experiencing extremely heavy (20 cm) rainfall on 14 June.
In the past 24 hours, Hasimara, Banarhat, and Alipurduar have already seen significant rainfall, causing local rivers to reach danger levels. Hasimara received 151 mm while Alipurduar received 141 mm of rain during this period. A Flood Control Room has been established since 1 June of this year. Chief Engineer Krishnendu Bhowmick of North Bengal has reported that engineers are closely monitoring the situation based on reports from the Central Water Commission, specifically regarding rivers originating from Sikkim and neighbouring country Bhutan which flow through northern north Bengal.
Sanchita Aich Bag, MP, 14 June 2024, Siliguri: Owing to incessant rainfall in Sikkim, triggering landslides, different areas of North Sikkim have been cut off. Around 1,200 tourists are reportedly stranded in Lachung and Mangan district.
The Sikkim government, with the help of the government of India, is planning to evacuate the tourists from there.
“As per the ground report, around 1200 domestic and 15 foreign tourists (two from Thailand, three from Nepal and 10 from Bangladesh) are stranded in Lachung, Mangan district. They are all safe and sound. The local authorities have requested all the stranded tourists to stay put in their respective place of stay and avoid taking any risks,” stated CS Rai, principal secretary, tourism and civil aviation, Government of Sikkim, in a release issued on Friday.
“There is adequate stock of food supplies and rations to cater to all the stranded tourists. The office of the Chief Secretary, Government of Sikkim has already initiated talks with the concerned Ministry, Government of India for airlifting of all the tourists subject to clear weather conditions,” the release further stated.
“If required the tourists shall also be evacuated by road. Tourism and Civil Aviation department, Government of Sikkim is working in close co-ordination with the concerned district administration, Police department and the tourism official at Mangan,” the release said, adding: “Only Lachung is cut off from the state, all other parts of Sikkim are open and safe for travel.”
Meanwhile, the condition of Sikkim has affected the tourism industry. Vehicular movement has been restricted in many places on the National Highway (NH 10). Heavy vehicles are travelling through Lava-Gorubathan, which is a longer route.
The diversions to Sikkim are time taking and also costlier. Small vehicles are also charging double the amount, as the condition of the roads is very bad in some areas and detours have to be taken.
“Sikkim plays a very important role in the tourism business of this region. NH 10 closes down often owing to landslides and floods. This road needs to be repaired permanently or an alternate route so that such problems do not occur in future,” said Samrat Sanyal, secretary of Himalayan Hospitality and Tourism Development Network.
Siddhartha Soodh, president of Kalimpong Hotel Owners’ Association, said: “The closure of NH 10 is affecting tourism business in Kalimpong. The government should find a permanent solution to the problem.”
“I have booked a small vehicle from Siliguri Junction to go to Gangtok, which charges Rs 5500,” said Md. Ansul Mia, a tourist from Bangladesh who was in Siliguri on the way to Bangladesh.
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