Sikkim: Border Roads Organisation (BRO) has launched restoration works on a war footing in north Sikkim following massive landslides triggered by a cloudburst and incessant rains, enabling partial road connectivity for the evacuation of over 1,000 stranded tourists.
According to an official release, the devastating rainfall, which recorded up to 130 mm on April 24, caused severe damage to roads leading to major tourist destinations such as Lachen, Lachung, Gomra, the Valley of Flowers, and Zero Point.
The deluge triggered multiple landslides and formation breaches, severely hampering road infrastructure crucial to Sikkim’s tourism-dependent economy.
Under Project Swastik, BRO personnel have been working around the clock in harsh and inclement weather to restore critical links. Despite facing a formation breach of approximately 70 metres on the road to Lachen, efforts are underway on a war footing to reconnect the area.
Meanwhile, Project Swastik teams achieved a significant breakthrough by reopening the road towards Lachung for one-way movement of light vehicles by the evening of April 26.
The restored connectivity is expected to facilitate the safe evacuation of more than 1,000 stranded tourists from Lachung and Lachen via Donkyala Pass.
With the prolonged monsoon season setting in early, BRO workers continue to strengthen damaged road infrastructure and undertake crucial surfacing work to ensure safer and more durable connectivity.
Their dedicated and selfless efforts, despite relentless rains and challenging terrain, have garnered widespread appreciation from local communities.
Road infrastructure remains vital for the economic and tourism growth of Sikkim, and the swift action by BRO has reaffirmed its commitment to aiding the region during critical times.