Gangtok flooded after heavy rain, citizens blame GMC for poor drainage and lack of preparedness

A spell of heavy rainfall on Sunday caused waterlogging and flooding in several parts of Gangtok, bringing life to a standstill and criticism from residents. The clogged drainage systems failed to handle the sudden downpour leading to overflowing water that flooded roads and entered residential and commercial areas.

While the monsoon has not officially arrived in the region, the rains were heavy enough to cause chaos across the city. Several areas in the capital witnessed knee-deep water on the roads, causing traffic jams, damage to vehicles and general inconvenience to commuters and pedestrians. Videos and photos of waterlogged streets quickly spread across social media, with many users sarcastically referring to the roads as “rivers.”

Citizens voiced their frustration and disappointment with the Gangtok Municipal Corporation (GMC), demanding accountability and immediate action. One of the strongest reactions came from Syari Constituency SKM leader Nawang Kalden Pinasa, who openly criticized GMC officials, including the Mayor, Deputy Mayor, Commissioner and staff members.

In a video message, Pinasa said, “I want to blame the Mayor of GMC, the Deputy Mayor, the Commissioner, and all the staff. Yesterday’s heavy rainfall flooded our roads because of the carelessness of the GMC. This should not be repeated in the future. If the department is not able to handle this, they should step down and let others do the job.”

He further questioned the maintenance of drainage systems and highlighted the need for regular cleaning of small dams and drains. “You have to open the dams and clean them weekly. You have manpower, use it. Put CCTV cameras where people are blocking drains and fine them. Don’t wait until disaster strikes,” he added.

Pinasa criticized the lack of toilets and police presence in busy areas like MG Market and highlighted the dire situation in other parts of Gangtok . “There is no electricity, no proper drainage, and no cleanliness. If you cannot manage the city, give us the post. Give me just a month and I’ll show how to clean and manage the city properly,” he said.

He also appealed to the officers and staff of GMC not to take criticism negatively but to learn from mistakes and improve.

Adding to the concern was the sudden swelling of the Ranikhola river which triggered panic among residents. In Singtam, rising water levels brought back painful memories of the devastating October 2023 Glacial Lake Outburst Flood (GLOF) incident that had caused widespread damage in the region.