In a proactive measure to mitigate the looming threat of landslides during the upcoming monsoon season, the Gangtok district administration has imposed a ban on new earth excavation activities from June 1 to September 30. District Collector Tushar G Nikhare issued the directive under Section 30 of the Disaster Management Act 2005, citing heightened vulnerability to landslides exacerbated by the monsoon rains and hill-cutting practices.
The order, aimed at preventing potential property damage and ensuring the safety of residents, strictly prohibits any new earth excavation projects within the stipulated timeframe in Gangtok. Nikhare, in his capacity as chairman of the district disaster management authority, emphasized the importance of this measure in safeguarding the region, which is particularly prone to landslides during heavy monsoon rains. Historical data underscores Sikkim’s susceptibility to landslides due to its hilly terrain, exacerbated by human activities such as hill cutting and construction. However, exceptions are made in the order for activities essential for protection, restoration, and maintenance, ensuring that necessary infrastructure and safety measures can still be implemented without delay.
The administration highlighted the critical importance of these permitted activities for maintaining stability and ensuring the safety of existing structures and essential services. This decision aligns with broader efforts across the Northeast to address environmental and safety challenges posed by the monsoon, recognizing the region’s susceptibility to natural disasters and the need for proactive measures in disaster preparedness and risk reduction. Residents and contractors are urged to comply with the new regulations, contributing to the collective effort to enhance community safety. The district administration has assured close monitoring and enforcement of the ban to prevent unauthorized excavation activities.
