Dzongu: The reconstruction of the Sanklang Bridge in Dzongu, North Sikkim, which was severely damaged by a Glacial Lake Outburst Flood (GLOF) in October 2024, is expected to be completed by June 30, 2025, according to Mangan Deputy Commissioner (DC) Anant Jain.
The bridge is a critical link between Mangan and Dzongu, and its restoration will help re-establish seamless connectivity to the region.
In preparation for potential emergencies, authorities have devised contingency plans to transport stranded tourists, similar to the transshipment operations conducted in 2024. Footbridges at Sanklang and other key points will be utilized for rescue and emergency operations if required. Meanwhile, officials have reassured travelers that North Sikkim remains open to tourism via the Fidang-Dzongu route, with efforts underway to minimize disruptions for visitors despite ongoing repairs.
Apart from the Sanklang Bridge, the strategic highway leading to Gurudongmar and Lachen has suffered severe damage, particularly on the Mangan-to-Chungthang stretch via Toong. To address this, an alternate road alignment to Toong is under construction. However, the collapse of the Bailey Bridge has caused delays, pushing the timeline back by one to two months.
Clarifying confusion over the responsible agencies, officials stated that multiple agencies are overseeing infrastructure projects in North Sikkim. The Border Roads Organisation (BRO) is handling the Mangan-to-Chungthang highway and its extensions to Lachen and Lachung, as well as the reconstruction of the Sanklang and Tungna Bridges. The Fidang-to-Chungthang road also falls under BRO’s jurisdiction, while the Chungthang-to-Lachen stretch is managed by the 86 RCC, another BRO unit.
With the monsoon season approaching, disaster preparedness efforts are in full swing. Key departments, including road construction, water supply, fire services, and disaster management, have held preliminary meetings to assess available resources such as JCBs, rescue personnel, and alternate routes in anticipation of heavy rainfall disruptions.
Despite ongoing repairs, officials have assured that the region remains open to tourists. Quick Response Teams (QRTs), home guards, and police personnel have been stationed along operational routes to manage traffic and ensure smooth movement.