Stories
Recurring Landslides Threaten West Sikkim Village, Forcing Evacuations and Relief Efforts
- •Recurring landslides since August, triggered by heavy monsoon rains, have severely destabilized the ground beneath Rimbi village in West Sikkim, potentially rendering it uninhabitable.
- •A massive landslide in the Singlitam-Rimbi belt destroyed over 30 houses, leading to the evacuation of 107 people to a relief camp and nine houses in Singlitam.
- •Disaster relief commissioner Rinzing Chewang stated that a geological survey will be conducted after the monsoon to study the landslide's causes through a multidisciplinary assessment.
- •Families who lost houses will receive Rs 1.3 lakh each, and those who lost land will be provided with new land and a house under the Sikkim Housing Scheme.
- •Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang expressed concern, emphasizing the government's priority for the safety and well-being of affected residents and urging vigilance amid torrential rain.
Key Questions Answered
Families who lost their houses will receive Rs 1.3 lakh each. Under the Sikkim Housing Scheme, those who lost their land will be provided with land along with a new house, while residents who still own land will receive construction support.
The administration has shifted locals to the Gram Prasasan Kendra, accommodating 107 people at the relief camp while evacuating nine houses in Singlitam as a safety precaution. A multidisciplinary geological survey will also be conducted after the monsoon to assess the landslide causes.
Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang expressed deep concern and directed local authorities to stay on high alert, continuously monitor conditions, and take all necessary measures to protect residents. He also appealed to citizens in affected areas to remain vigilant, adhere to official advisories, and support one another.