The Aryavarth Express
North Sikkim (Sikkim): Tourist activity in North Sikkim has returned to normal following the reopening of the Toong–Naga Road, bringing much-needed relief to the region after months of disruption caused by last year’s Glacial Lake Outburst Flood (GLOF).
Nim Tshering Lepcha, Chairman of the Sikkim Welfare Commission, said tourist movement towards Lachung is now smooth, with nearly 400 tourist vehicles visiting the area daily. He added that road conditions have improved significantly, ensuring safe and uninterrupted travel for visitors.
Meanwhile, the Border Roads Organisation (BRO) is constructing a bridge over the Taram Chu River along the route to Lachen. The bridge is expected to be completed by the first week of February, after which tourist movement to Lachen will also resume.
On rehabilitation efforts, Lepcha said that 125 families affected by the disaster from Rel, Naga and Toong wards will be relocated to Upper Bojoghari in Gangtok. Land ownership documents (parchas) will be distributed on 8 February, following which construction of permanent houses will begin.
The Toong–Naga region was among the worst-hit areas during the October 2023 GLOF, which triggered massive flooding along the Teesta basin. The disaster caused extensive damage to roads, bridges and settlements across North Sikkim. Subsequent landslides further worsened the situation, cutting off connectivity and displacing several families.
After months of restoration work by the state government and central agencies, the reopening of the Toong–Naga Road marks a significant step towards restoring normalcy, reviving tourism, and rehabilitating affected residents.
The Government of Sikkim has reiterated its commitment to the rehabilitation and resettlement of GLOF-affected families from Toong and Naga, focusing on safety, sustainability and dignified living.
In the immediate aftermath of the 2023 GLOF, the Indian Army under Trishakti Corps played a crucial role in supporting civil authorities. Army units carried out evacuation operations, provided medical assistance, cleared debris and helped reopen critical road links. Engineer units also established temporary connectivity to ensure the movement of essential supplies and services in difficult terrain and adverse weather conditions.
