DDMA team visits landslide affected areas in Gangtok district

GANGTOK,: A team of District Disaster Management Authority, Gangtok visited different areas under Gangtok district affected by landslides triggered by the heavy downpours of August 26.

The team visited the slide area at Development Area, Syari, Upper Nandok, Lower Nandok and Middle Syari.

The team included deputy mayor Tshering Palden Bhutia, ward councillor Pema Lhamu Lamtha, zilla members of Syari, panchayat members, Gangtok SDM Mahindra Chettri, DDMA deputy director Sonam W. Lepcha, DDMA TO Bijayata Kharel, UD&HD chief engineer, Nandok BDO M.K. Rai, PMGSY AE Chewang Bhutia, JJM AE and Nandok BAC APO.

During inspections, many households were found vulnerable due to landslides caused by heavy rainfall, which eroded walls and land beneath homes. Damaged footpaths were also noted in rural areas, informs a release issued by Gangtok district administration.

The affected families were advised to stay alert during downpours, and to promptly contact their ward panchayat or block development officer for assistance in emergencies.

As an immediate relief measure, tarpaulins were provided to cover the landslide-affected areas. The ex-gratia payments for damaged homes will be disbursed according to the State Disaster Response Fund norms, the release adds.