Unleashing the Wrath of Nature’s Fury on Lachen Valley and Its Periphery

CHEWANGLACHENPA

Lachen, situated at an altitude of 8,900 ft in North Sikkim, is a picturesque Himalayan village now facing immense hardship due to frequent natural calamities. The brunt of nature — in the form of landslides triggered by heavy rainfall — has shattered hopes and disrupted the livelihoods of the local population.

The terror of the climate crisis has not only affected the livelihoods of those dependent on tourism but also posed significant challenges to the region’s infrastructure, resilience, and people’s aspirations.

1. Challenges and Their Consequences

Landslides and roadblocks regularly disrupt connectivity, making it difficult for tourists to visit and for locals to access essential commodities. Residents are struggling to secure basic necessities like:

• Food (vegetables and daily essentials)
• Healthcare (access to medicines)
• Connectivity (roads, mobile networks, and internet)

These issues have worsened due to recent climate-related disruptions.

2. Impact on the Tourism Industry

Tourism in Lachen has taken a severe hit. Natural disasters have created uncertainty and risk, discouraging visitors. Local businesses — heavily reliant on tourism — are suffering significant financial losses, and many livelihoods are at stake.

(Lachen Village)

3. Climate Crisis Concerns in Lachen and the Greater Himalayan Region

A) Glacier Retreat

Approximately 75% of Himalayan glaciers are retreating at an alarming rate, threatening water security in downstream areas.

B) Changing Rainfall Patterns

Unpredictable rainfall patterns are affecting the ecosystem and triggering more frequent extreme weather events. Heavy rainfall now regularly results in destructive landslides.

C) Warming Temperatures

The region is warming rapidly, with some areas witnessing a rise of 0.06°C per year — accelerating glacier melt and altering water regimes.

D) Regional Vulnerability

Steep terrain, fragile ecology, and seismic sensitivity make the region extremely vulnerable to natural disasters.

Consequences:
Melting glaciers form unstable glacial lakes that can burst, causing devastating floods (e.g., GLOFs). Changes in rainfall and glacier melt are also triggering landslides, as is being witnessed across the Himalayan belt, including in Lachen.

4. Road Connectivity – A Persistent Challenge

The Border Roads Organisation (BRO) and GREF, under Project Swastik, are responsible for road construction in North Sikkim. However, challenging terrain and frequent rainfall have severely delayed progress.

Flash floods and landslides have damaged crucial bridges and roads, making commuting hazardous. The difficult topography — including steep slopes and rocky terrain — calls for specialized construction methods and dedicated budgetary support.

Suggestions for Sustainable Road Construction:

1. Conduct thorough Environmental Impact Assessments (EIAs)
2. Implement climate-resilient construction techniques
3. Align road design with the natural terrain
4. Use sustainable materials
5. Ensure proper drainage and slope stabilization
6. Demand professionalism and integrity from contractors
7. Ensure regular monitoring and accountability by civil authorities

Alternative routes should also be explored to ensure year-round connectivity and resilience to future crises.

5. Future Perspectives: Rebuilding Lachen with Sustainability and Resilience

A) Disaster-Resilient Infrastructure

Designing infrastructure that can withstand natural calamities.

B) Sustainable Tourism

Promoting eco-tourism to support local livelihoods while minimizing ecological damage.

C) Community-Led Initiatives

Empowering locals to participate in development and disaster preparedness.

D) Unity, Cooperation, and Spiritual Significance

Lachenpas have long worshipped local deities. Perhaps these calamities are a wake-up call. Devotion to local guardian deities — with pure heart and collective prayer — may help restore peace and unity.

E) Environmental Conservation

Preserving the natural ecosystem is essential to minimize future risks.

Amidst the crisis, the resilience of the people of Lachen is truly commendable. However, rebuilding must focus on sustainability, climate awareness, and disaster preparedness.

A regional approach to disaster management, integrated early warning systems, and long-term investment in infrastructure are urgently needed — through coordinated efforts by both the state and central governments — to protect Lachen and its ecosystem for future generations.