Heavy rain and hailstorm cause damages in Kabi Sub-Division, SDM leads site inspection

A sudden spell of heavy rainfall along with hailstorm on April 23 caused significant damage in several areas under Kabi Sub-Division in North Sikkim. The downpour led to multiple landslides and damaged roads, troubling the local residents and affecting movement along important routes.

Taking immediate action, a team led by Ms. Monika Rai, SCS, Sub-Divisional Magistrate (SDM) of Kabi Sub-Division, visited the affected areas to assess the damage and guide response efforts. She was accompanied by Shri Sonam Thendup Bhutia, Head Surveyor of Phodong Circle under the Land Revenue & Disaster Management Department (LR&DMD), along with members of the District Management Authority (DMA) team from Kabi.

One of the most affected areas was the stretch of NH-10 Highway near Jali Khola under the Lower Rongong ward in the Rongong-Tumlong Gram Panchayat Unit (GPU). Due to the blocked roadside drains, water overflowed onto the road, causing erosion and eventually leading to a mudslide. The road damage has caused serious concern for transportation and safety.

To prevent further destruction, the SDM immediately directed that the landslide area be covered with tarpaulin sheets. This temporary measure was taken to protect the soil and prevent more sliding in case of more rain. The concerned department has also been informed about the situation for further repair and follow-up action.

Besides Jali Khola, the SDM-led team also visited other affected locations under Phensong and Men-Rongong GPUs. These areas also showed signs of rainfall-related damage, though not as severe as the mudslide on the highway. The inspection helped authorities understand the situation better and plan next steps to support the local communities.