North Sikkim has been hit by heavy snowfall, following three days of relentless rain that triggered multiple landslides across the state. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a red alert, forecasting heavy to very heavy rainfall over the next two days. In the past 24 hours alone, Sikkim has recorded 102 mm of rainfall, with Mangan, Soteng, and Gyalshing districts experiencing particularly heavy downpours.
The sudden weather change has brought the season’s first snowfall to the high reaches of North Sikkim, especially in the Lachen and Lachung valleys, much earlier than usual. This unexpected snowfall, combined with landslides, has severely disrupted socio-economic activities and posed significant challenges for road users.
In response, the Border Roads Organisation (BRO) has mobilized heavy machinery and manpower to clear strategic roads in North Sikkim. Despite facing freezing temperatures, insufficient oxygen, high winds, and blizzards, the resilient BRO workers remain committed to keeping the roads open.
