A massive landslide struck Upper Rimbi in Yangthang Constituency of West Sikkim around midnight, killing at least four people and leaving three others missing, officials confirmed on Friday.
According to Geyzing Superintendent of Police Tshering Sherpa, three victims died instantly when the landslide swept away multiple houses.
Authorities identified the deceased as Bhim Prasad Limboo (53), his sister Anita Limboo (46), his son-in-law Bimal Rai (50), and his seven-year-old granddaughter Anjal Rai.
Rescue teams saved two women alive during an overnight operation carried out by the police, Sashastra Seema Bal (SSB), State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), and local villagers. Rescuers built a makeshift tree-log bridge across the flooded Hume River to reach the trapped victims.
Both women were admitted to the District Hospital in Geyzing. Hospital officials confirmed that one woman later succumbed to her injuries, while the other remains in critical condition.
Minister for Buildings and Housing and Labour Department Bhim Hang Limboo, who also represents the constituency, reached the site around 2 AM to oversee rescue and relief operations.
He said torrential rainfall and damaged approach roads hampered operations, but added that coordinated efforts enabled the evacuation of survivors.
“The situation is extremely challenging due to continuous downpour, but all departments are working together to ensure survivors are rescued and immediate relief is provided,” he said.
Rescue teams continued search operations on Friday to locate the three missing persons. Authorities deployed heavy machinery, but unstable terrain and incessant rains made the task extremely difficult.
Officials have urged residents in landslide-prone areas to remain vigilant and shift to safer locations if necessary.
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecast more rainfall in the coming days. The state government has instructed district administrations to stay on high alert.
Landslides frequently hit Sikkim during the monsoon season. Officials noted that this particular incident was especially severe because a large section of the hillside collapsed suddenly, triggering flash flooding in the river below.
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