The Border Roads Organization (BRO) is demonstrating unwavering commitment and efficiency as it undertakes the massive task of restoring connectivity to North Sikkim under challenging circumstances.
In response to the severe disruption caused by incessant rains since June 11, BRO has deployed multiple heavy machinery and hundreds of laborers to clear numerous landslides across Mangan district. The unprecedented rainfall has wreaked havoc, leading to multiple heavy slides and formation breaches on key roads including Dikchu-Sanklang-Toong, Mangan-Sanklang, Singtham-Rangrang, and Rangrang-Toong, severing connectivity to North Sikkim.
The situation became critical following the collapse of a newly constructed suspension bridge at Sanklang, which was a crucial link for the region. Approximately 1,200-1,500 tourists are stranded in North Sikkim due to these blockages.
In a swift and coordinated response, BRO cleared multiple slides along the Sanklang-Toong road, making it traffic-worthy for light vehicles. Similarly, the road stretch between Naga and Lanthakhola on the Mangan–Chungthang road has been cleared. However, massive breaches at traditional slide points like Lanthakhola and Rafangkhola have posed significant challenges. Heavy equipment has been deployed to restore vehicular connectivity at these critical points, and log bridges have been constructed to ensure foot connectivity.
BRO’s painstaking efforts are focused on rescuing stranded tourists as quickly as possible. The organization’s swift and efficient response underscores its continuous commitment to maintaining crucial infrastructure under the most arduous conditions. The dedication of the BRO team, particularly Project Swastik, exemplifies their motto, “In Silence of Our Great Mountains: Work Speaks.”
