IMD issues heavy rainfall alert for Gangtok and surrounding areas

Digital Desk: The India Meteorological Department (IMD) and the Sikkim State Disaster Management Authority (SSDMA) have issued an advisory predicting heavy rainfall in isolated areas of Gangtok, Gyalshing, Pakyong, and Soreng over the next 24 hours, starting from 13:00 IST on June 15, 2024. Residents in these regions are urged to take necessary precautions and stay updated with weather bulletins for further information.

Additionally, more than 1,200 tourists stranded in Sikkim's Mangan district due to disruptions in road and communication networks may be evacuated on Sunday if weather permits, according to a state government statement. 

"The evacuation of tourists from Lachung would begin tomorrow through airlift and roadways, depending on weather conditions," the statement said on Saturday.

Sikkim Tourism and Civil Aviation Minister Tshering Thendup Bhutia will coordinate the evacuation efforts. 

According to Tourism and Civil Aviation Secretary CS Rao, around 1,215 tourists, including 15 foreigners, have been stranded in Lachung town for the past week due to incessant rains that have wreaked havoc on the road and communication networks in Mangan district, disrupting vehicle movement.