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Six dead, 1500 tourists stranded in India's Sikkim after heavy rainfall, landslides

Six dead, 1500 tourists stranded in India's Sikkim after heavy rainfall, landslides

Landslide in Sikkim after heavy rainfall

At least six people were killed in the northeastern Indian state of Sikkim as incessant rainfall caused massive landslides and devastation in the Mangan district. Officials said Thursday (Jun 13) that more than 1,500 tourists were also stranded in the state as the newly constructed bailey bridge at Sangkalang came crashing down, severing the link between Mangan and Dzongu and Chungthang. According to officials, landslides ended up blocking roads, damaging houses and destroying electricity poles.

Due to roads being blockedat several places, towns such as Dzongu, Chungthang, Lachen, and Lachung in Mangan district, known for popular tourist spots like Gurudongmar Lake and Yunthang Valley, have been cut off from the rest of the country.

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Mangan District Magistrate Hem Kumar Chettri said "three persons each died in Pakshep and Ambhithang villages".

In several areas of North Sikkim, telecom services were also affected due to heavy rainfall and landslides.

Sikkim Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang earlier directed officials to ensure a swift response to the tragedy and provide assistance to the victims.

"Efforts are underway to provide every possible support to the victims and affected families, including recovery assistance, temporary settlement, and the provision of basic needs," Tamang said in a statement from Arunachal Pradesh, where he is attending the swearing-in ceremony of BJP leader Pema Khandu.

"The state government stands firmly with the victims of this unfortunate incident, pledging the utmost support to the bereaved families and all those affected and displaced by the landslides," he said.

Right now, the Teesta River is overflowing, which could cause problems for people living in the low-lying Singtam town. Officials in Namchi district said that the rising water has flooded the Melli stadium. Last October, about 50 people died in a sudden flood in the Himalayan state.

(With inputs from agencies)