Heavy rainfall has triggered increased landslide activity in Singlitam and Rimbi areas of Sikkim’s Gyalshing district since September 12. Authorities have evacuated 28 houses involving 128 people from vulnerable locations in Rimbi as a precaution. At Singlitam, seven affected households have moved to a relief centre, where more than 33 people are receiving essential support.
Meanwhile, officials continue road restoration, debris clearance and safety operations. The administration has also warned residents to avoid landslide zones, rivers and streams during heavy rainfall.
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Key Facts
- Location: Singlitam and Rimbi, Gyalshing district, Sikkim
- Landslide activity reported since: September 12
- People evacuated from Rimbi: 128
- Houses evacuated at Rimbi: 28
- Singlitam relief centre: More than 33 people
- Main cause: Heavy rainfall and flooding
- Key damage: RCC bridge washed away and road connectivity disrupted
- District Collector: Tenzing Denzongpa
- Response: Evacuation, relief, debris clearance and road restoration
Landslide Activity Intensifies in Gyalshing
Heavy rainfall has increased landslide activity in Singlitam and Rimbi. The incidents have affected residential areas and public infrastructure across the region.
The Sikkim State Disaster Management Authority (SSDMA) said the District Administration and concerned departments are maintaining round-the-clock monitoring.
Gyalshing District Collector Tenzing Denzongpa has also been regularly visiting the affected locations. He is assessing damage and reviewing ongoing response measures.
128 People Evacuated From Rimbi
Authorities initially evacuated four houses at Rimbi after identifying vulnerable locations. The evacuation involved 18 family members, who moved to relatives’ homes with relief assistance.
However, heavy rainfall and flooding on September 14 worsened conditions. As a result, officials expanded the evacuation operation.
Authorities have now shifted 128 people from 28 houses to the Rimbi Gram Panchayat Kendra (GPK). Officials took the step as a precaution against further landslides and flooding.
Singlitam Residents Shifted to Relief Centre
At Singlitam, seven directly affected households have moved to a relief centre at Singlitam Ward.
More than 33 people, including children and elderly residents, are currently staying at the centre. Meanwhile, the District Administration is providing food and other essential supplies.
Officials have also installed lighting at the affected site. This arrangement will help teams monitor landslide activity during rainfall and at night.
Roads and Bridges Department Clears Debris
The Roads and Bridges Department continues debris clearance and road restoration work in the affected areas.
At Mandir Point, officials have identified the main area linked to the ongoing landslide activity. Furthermore, the lower-lying area towards Rimbi Ward remains vulnerable to additional landslides.
The administration has advised residents in vulnerable locations to move to safer areas whenever heavy rainfall begins or officials issue evacuation directions.
Debris Blocks Stream and Damages Bridge
Landslide debris has accumulated along the NiK Kholsa stream. Rainwater continues to carry debris downstream towards Rimbi village, affecting houses located along the stream.
Heavy rainfall has also increased water and debris flow. Consequently, the flow washed away the RCC bridge at Rimbi.
Officials warned that debris blocking the natural water flow could create additional risks during intense rainfall. Therefore, residents should stay away from debris zones and stream courses.
Rimbi River Changes Course
The main Rimbi River has changed its course and is now affecting the roadside flank.
The State Government is taking steps to construct a Bailey Bridge at a higher location. The proposed bridge aims to restore connectivity after the main road was completely washed away on the night of May 14, 2026.
Temporary Bridge and Water Supply Measures
Authorities plan to construct a temporary bamboo bridge from September 15 to support public movement in the affected area.
Local residents, Panchayat members, SDM Yuksom officials, Advisor N.B. Limboo and other representatives jointly identified the proposed location.
Meanwhile, the District Administration is supplying poly-alkathene water pipes to restore immediate water connectivity to the Rimbi relief camp and the main village water tank.
ICDS Centre Faces Flood Risk
The Rimbi ICDS Centre, located directly below the expanding landslide area, flooded after heavy rainfall on September 14.
Because children use the centre, the concerned department has been asked to examine relocation to a safer site.
The SDM, Yuksom, is also assessing land damage. Authorities will provide applicable relief assistance to affected landowners after completing the assessment under prescribed norms.
Authorities Issue Safety Advisory
The SSDMA said the District Administration, District Disaster Management Authority, concerned departments and Panchayat representatives continue to monitor the situation.
Residents in Singlitam, Rimbi and other vulnerable areas should remain alert. They should avoid unnecessary travel through landslide-prone areas during heavy rain.
Authorities have also advised people to stay away from rivers, streams and drainage channels, particularly during intense rainfall and at night.
Residents should immediately report fresh ground cracks, unusual sounds, ground movement or sudden changes in water flow to local authorities.
Question–Answer Section
What caused the landslides in Gyalshing?
Heavy rainfall and flooding have triggered increased landslide activity in Singlitam and Rimbi.
How many people have authorities evacuated from Rimbi?
Authorities have evacuated 128 people from 28 houses.
Where are the evacuated Rimbi residents staying?
The authorities have shifted them to the Rimbi Gram Panchayat Kendra.
How many people are staying at the Singlitam relief centre?
More than 33 people, including children and elderly residents, are staying at the relief centre.
What happened to the Rimbi RCC bridge?
Heavy water and debris flow washed away the RCC bridge.
What safety advice have authorities issued?
Residents should avoid landslide zones, debris areas, rivers and streams during heavy rainfall and follow evacuation instructions.
Location Context
Gyalshing is a mountainous district in Sikkim, a Northeast Indian state that regularly faces landslides during periods of intense rainfall. The latest situation highlights the importance of disaster preparedness, safe evacuation and rapid restoration of road and water connectivity in vulnerable hill communities.
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