Landslide occurred on opposite hillside; pose no direct threat to Bhaleydhunga Skywalk project

GANGTOK,: The State government is closely monitoring the landslide situation near Bhaleydhunga in South Sikkim’s Yangang region while asserting that the natural calamity does not pose any direct threat to the iconic Skywalk project being developed atop the cliff.

Following continuous heavy rainfall in the Yangang region, a major landslide occurred near Bhaleydhunga at approximately 1:00 am on June 10.

The Government of Sikkim has responded promptly to the situation and is closely monitoring developments on the ground to ensure the safety and well-being of affected residents, said Chief Minister’s press secretary Yougan Tamang in a media statement.

It was informed that Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang-Golay directed all concerned departments and agencies to remain on high alert, continuously assess the situation, and to take all necessary preventive and relief measures to mitigate any potential risks arising from further landslides or adverse weather conditions.

The Chief Minister has also instructed officials to ensure timely assistance to affected citizens and maintain constant vigilance in vulnerable areas, said Yougan Tamang.

Acting on these directions, Rangang-Yangang MLA-Deputy Speaker Raj Kumari Thapa formed a joint assessment and monitoring team comprising representatives from various departments and local authorities conducted an extensive field inspection of the affected site.

The team included Advisor C.L. Gurung, SDM Yangang, officials from the Police department led by the SDPO, Ravangla, personnel from the Forest and Wildlife department, Public Health Engineering department, members of the State Disaster Management Authority, zilla and gram panchayat representatives, volunteers from Yangang.

It was informed that the team carried out a detailed assessment of the landslide zone, evaluated potential risks, and prepared a comprehensive report to facilitate further monitoring, planning, and implementation of mitigation measures. The findings will guide the government in taking appropriate steps to address the situation and strengthen preparedness against any future incidents.

“During the inspection, the team confirmed that the landslide occurred on the opposite hillside, separated from Bhaleydhunga by a natural cliff and valley formation. Based on the technical assessment and observations made on the ground, it was determined that the landslide has not posed any direct threat to Bhaleydhunga or the Bhaleydhunga Skywalk project,” said Yougan.

It was observed that the landslide had temporarily blocked the course of the Bhaley Khola below the slide area. However, the obstruction was later cleared naturally, restoring the river's flow. Despite this development, the government remains vigilant as fluctuations in water flow and terrain instability continue to pose potential risks.

Given the proximity of Mazua Busty (Upper Rangang) to the river course, the monitoring team and concerned departments have prepared a contingency evacuation plan. As a precautionary measure, arrangements have been identified to relocate residents of Mazua Busty to the Culture Park, Yangang, should the situation warrant immediate evacuation. Necessary logistical and support mechanisms are being kept ready to ensure the safety of residents in the event of any escalation.

“The Government of Sikkim under the leadership of the Chief Minister is closely monitoring the situation and working in coordination with all concerned departments, local authorities, and stakeholders to ensure timely action wherever required. The administration in coordination with the Area MLA is keeping a constant watch on the affected area and will continue to take appropriate measures based on ground assessments and evolving weather conditions to ensure the safety and well-being of residents,” said the Chief Minister’s press secretary.

Yougan appealed to the people to remain vigilant, follow instructions issued by local authorities, and avoid venturing into vulnerable zones until further advisories are issued. The public is requested to refrain from sharing unverified information or creating unnecessary speculation on social media, and to rely on official advisories for accurate updates, he said.