Gangtok: In a blow to Sikkim’s connectivity, the Teesta River has breached its embankment at 29th Mile, completely submerging a stretch of National Highway 10 (NH-10) the principal road linking Sikkim and Kalimpong with Siliguri. The flooding has crippled movement of vehicles and brought NH-10 traffic to a standstill.
Though Sikkim is not completely cut off, road access is now only possible via a longer route through Lava and Gorubathan, which is already witnessing heavy traffic and remains vulnerable to additional landslides.
The river began rising on Monday evening due to intense rainfall in the upper reaches of Sikkim, causing it to overflow by Tuesday morning. Floodwaters at 29th Mile breached containment levels, while Rabijhora near Teesta Bazar also reported flooding. The situation turned worse when a massive landslide struck Bardang, between Singtam and Rangpo, completely blocking NH-10. Another major roadblock has occurred at Taar Khola, just before Rangpo Check Post, choking all movement.
In other parts of Sikkim, the Singtam–Dikchu Road is also blocked, cutting off several interior areas. Severe damage to roads and bridges has been reported in Tintek Khola, Kokaley, Burtuk, and Chujachen, leaving local supply chains disrupted.
Restoration work is underway but is being severely hampered by continuous rainfall. According to BRO and district officials, clearance of landslide debris may take more time if rain continues.
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has recorded heavy rainfall in the past 24 hours and issued a warning of very heavy rain for the next 48 hours across Sikkim, Darjeeling, Kalimpong, and Jalpaiguri districts. Fresh landslides and river overflow remain highly likely.
Authorities have urged all travellers to avoid the affected routes and remain on high alert, especially in landslide-prone zones.
Also Read | Why experts are flagging technical flaws, legal gaps in Teesta Dam rebuild plan