Reconstruction of GLOF-damaged Sanklang Bridge in North Sikkim to be completed by June end

DZONGU, : The reconstruction of Sanklang Bridge in Dzongu, North Sikkim, which was severely damaged by a Glacial Lake Outburst Flood (GLOF) in October 2024, is expected to be completed by June 30, informed Mangan DC Anant Jain. The bridge serves as a critical link between Mangan and Dzongu, and its reconstruction will help restore seamless connectivity to the region.

In response to potential emergencies, authorities have devised contingency plans to transport stranded tourists, similar to the transhipment operations conducted in 2024. Footbridges at Sanklang and other key points will be utilized for rescue and emergency operations if required.

Meanwhile, authorities have reassured travellers that North Sikkim remains open for tourism through Fidang-Dzongu route. Despite ongoing repairs, efforts are being made to ensure minimal disruptions for visitors.

In addition to the Sanklang Bridge, the strategic highway leading to Gurudongmar and Lachen has been heavily impacted, with severe damage reported on the road from Mangan to Chungthang, particularly through Toong. To address this, officials have identified an alternate alignment for the road to Toong, which is currently under construction. However, delays due to the collapse of the Bailey Bridge have pushed the timeline back by one or two months.

Confusion over the responsible agencies has been cleared, with officials stating that multiple agencies are handling the infrastructure projects in North Sikkim. The Border Roads Organisation (BRO) is responsible for the Mangan-Chungthang highway, its extensions to Lachen and Lachung, as well as the reconstruction of the Sanklang and Tungna Bridges. The Fidang-Chungthang road is also under BRO’s jurisdiction, while the Chungthang to Lachen road falls under 86 RCC, another BRO unit.

With the monsoon season approaching, disaster preparedness efforts are underway. Preliminary meetings have been held with key departments such as road construction, water supply, fire services and disaster management to assess available resources, including JCBs, rescue personnel and alternate routes in anticipation of heavy rainfall disruptions, the DC informed.

Authorities have assured that despite ongoing repairs, the region remains open to tourists, with Quick Response Teams (QRTs), home guards and police personnel stationed along operational routes to manage traffic and ensure smooth movement.