Incessant rains since 12 June has caused havoc in North Sikkim. Due to unprecedented heavy rains various roads leading to North Sikkim like Dikchu-Sanklang-Toong, Mangan Sanklang, has experienced multiple heavy slides and formation breaches, resulting in severing of connectivity to North Sikkim.
Situation became grave after collapse of newly constructed suspension bridge at Sanklang as entire connectivity to North Sikkim and Dzongu region was through this bridge.
Sensing the gravity of situation, brave workers of Border Roads Organization (BRO) accepted the challenges thrown by nature. Since very first day, Project SWASTIK of BRO as first responder, swung into restoration efforts by mobilizing huge manpower and heavy machinery for slide clearance works. Despite heavy rains and inclement weather conditions, BRO successfully restored connectivity across Rafangkhola and Lanthakhola on Mangang-Chungthnag road. This road became traffic worthy for heavy vehicles till Naga. Restoration efforts to restore connectivity between Naga and Chungthang is under progress on war footing, so that connectivity to North Sikkim can be restored via this main axis. At the same time, BRO is working overtime to restore connectivity to North Sikkim and Dzongu region via alternate route i.e. Dikchu-Sanklang-Toong. Major challenge along this alternate route was huge formation breach at Dett Khola bridge. To overcome this bottleneck, BRO constructed massive abutments and later, in coordination with Army launched 70 feet Bailey bridge. This innovative approach enabled, pushing forward of heavy machineries and construction stores along this axis.
Swift and efficient response of BRO once again demonstrated resilience and determination in restoring vital connectivity to North Sikkim. Selfless commitment by brave workers of Border Roads Organization has earned a laurel from all quarters and has raised hopes amongst everyone towards early restoration of connectivity to North Sikkim.