Officials review restoration efforts at landslide-hit 20th Mile on Bardang–Rangpo road

A high-level joint inspection was held at the landslide-affected 20th Mile stretch on the Bardang–Rangpo road. The team was led by vice chairman of the Institute for Transforming Sikkim (ITS), C.P. Sharma, with ITS members present. MLA L.B. Das attended the site visit during the assessment of the current situation and the restoration progress on the road.

Technical findings and plans for stabilising the slope

Officials from multiple departments presented technical findings and the results of surveys carried out in the affected area. They also discussed both immediate and long-term measures to tackle the recurring landslide at the 20th Mile stretch. The team was briefed on how high-velocity water flow is eroding the road formation from below, while instability on the slope above the road has led to repeated landslides.

As part of the review, the inspection group was informed about geotechnical investigations being conducted to understand the extent of slope instability. Based on these inputs, departments discussed engineering steps that could restore and maintain road connectivity in a sustainable way. Deliberations covered options for temporary measures, along with permanent stabilisation approaches, with different agencies offering technical suggestions.

Road clearance operations underway for one-way movement

NHIDCL officials informed the team that round-the-clock clearance operations are in progress. Eleven excavators, three JCB machines, and two dozers are currently deployed to remove debris and support one-way traffic movement along the affected stretch. Earlier, the team also visited blocked portions of the road and upper slope areas to assess ground conditions.

MLA L.B. Das stressed the need to speed up both restoration and permanent stabilisation work, highlighting the importance of keeping connectivity on the National Highway in a border state. C.P. Sharma called for close coordination among agencies and a follow-up review after updated technical inputs are compiled. The team also discussed vulnerable locations, including nearby villages identified within the Singlaybong village area, and supported the idea of preparing a comprehensive disaster management plan with preparedness and relocation considerations if needed.

At the start of the visit, officials also inspected a landslide-affected site at Bhurung, Sapkota Gaon, Central Pendam. The visit focused on the impact on surrounding hillside areas and potential risks to nearby habitations, with MLA Das directing departments to carry out a detailed technical assessment and initiate protective measures to minimise future danger.