Mangan : With memories of the recent Nepal glacier collapse still fresh and the 2023 Teesta flash flood, even minor river blockages are quickly
triggering panic and speculation on social media.
Massive Landslide In Sikkim Partially Blocks Teesta River FlowThere is
no immediate flood threat to downstream areas
A landslide that occurred above North Sikkim's Chyakoong River in the
Mangan district on Saturday night has resulted in its partial
blockage, as well as that of the Teesta River, resulting in panic in
the area in view of the recent Nepal floods.
The incident occurred overnight near the Naga Forest area, opposite
Theng Tunnel.
With memories of the recent Nepal glacier collapse still fresh and the
2023 Teesta flash flood, even minor river blockages are quickly
triggering panic and speculation on social media.
However, there is no immediate flood threat to downstream areas, with
authorities urging residents in Mangan to remain calm, rely on
official updates and avoid spreading unverified information.
Officials in Sikkim have told NDTV that in the current environment,
even a relatively limited or temporary blockage of a river can quickly
be amplified on social media into fears of a major downstream flood.
Water levels at Sankalang and Phidang remain normal, though muddy,
with continuous monitoring underway, authorities said.
The advisory also asks people to avoid approaching the Teesta and
Chyakoong riverbanks in the affected stretch until the assessment is
complete.
Darjeeling MP Raju Bista said, "I have personally spoken to the the
Chief Secretary of Sikkim, Ravindra Telang ji, regarding the landslide
that occurred above the Chyakoong River, opposite OC Bhir, during the
intervening night of September 5 and 6, 2026. He has informed me that
the landslide has resulted in a partial blockage of the flow of both
rivers, with the flow of the Teesta River being temporarily
obstructed."
"However, at present, the flow of the Teesta River remains normal.
Water has accumulated in the Teesta and Chyakoong Rivers, but both
rivers continue to flow partially. No loss of life or injuries has
been reported so far," Bista added.
However, he urged people living on the banks of the Teesta river to
take precautionary steps and remain alert.
"Our entire region is receiving rainfall, so it is better to be safe
than sorry," the leader said.
According to the Mangan District Administration, water has accumulated
in the affected stretch, but both rivers continue to flow. Ground
assessments by police personnel at Chungthang and Theng have found the
Teesta flow to be normal at present.
The administration has alerted vulnerable areas in the lower belt as a
precautionary measure, while police and rescue personnel continue to
monitor the situation.
