A major landslide in East Sikkim on Tuesday caused significant damage to a 510-MW hydroelectric plant on the Teesta River. The disaster occurred near Singtam at Dipu Dara around 7:30 am, heavily impacting the Teesta Stage V hydroelectric project managed by the National Hydroelectric Power Corporation (NHPC). The powerhouse and the GIS building of the project were severely damaged.
The landslide affected around 17-18 houses, leading to the evacuation of six families who have been temporarily relocated to the NHPC Guest House in Balutar, now serving as a relief camp. The landslide also blocked the Singtam-Dikchu road, making it inaccessible. A temporary diversion has been created through Dochum. Gangtok's district collector, Tushar Nikhare, has requested the Border Roads Organisation (BRO) to begin immediate restoration work on the road.
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A team from Delhi will assess the site and suggest measures for restoration. Meanwhile, the department of mines and geology will investigate the landslide and provide recommendations for both short-term and long-term recovery efforts. The incident is reminiscent of earlier landslides in June, which stranded tourists and resulted in multiple fatalities across the state. The ongoing challenges highlight the region's vulnerability to such natural disasters, which continue to impact infrastructure and safety.
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