Ten people lost their lives in landslides in the Himalayan region, resulting in 2,400 tourists being stranded in northeastern India.
In the Sikkim state of India, six individuals perished due to the persistent rain that has been occurring for the past 36 hours. District Magistrate Hem Kumar Chettri from Sikkim revealed this information to CNN, also mentioning that the deceased bodies have been turned over to their families. The unfortunate event left behind 45 homes, roads, bridges, and infrastructure severely damaged.
Sikkim, situated between Bhutan and Nepal, is a famous destination for its beautiful Himalayan landscapes boasting 28 peaks, 21 glaciers, and more than 200 lakes. However, this mountainous location is susceptible to catastrophic flash floods and landslides. In fact, last year, numerous fatalities were reported following a burgeoning glacial lake due to torrential rainfall. Researchers have hinted that extreme weather could become more frequent and more intense with the deteriorating climate crisis.
Approximately 2,400 vacationers are presently stranded in various travel destinations in the state after landslides blocked roads and damaged several bridges. According to Chettri, these tourists are secure as he has spoken with hotel owners to accommodate them temporarily. Moreover, he emphasized that no one was on the roads, and advised the tourists to remain where they are.
State disaster management personnel are currently working on clearing roads to restore connectivity. Chettri estimates that it might take up to a week to rectify the situation.
As of now, the India Meteorological Department anticipates "occasional intense spells of rainfall" to persist over Sikkim and is likely to occur on Friday. Similarly, the neighboring West Bengal state has been enduring flooding issues in recent days, with uprooted trees, building damage, and overflowing Teesta River.
Although the north is suffering from heavy rains, India is simultaneously experiencing a record-length summer; one part of the capital, Delhi, recorded the nation's highest-ever temperature of 49.9 degrees Celsius (121.8 Fahrenheit) last month. The escalating temperature may impede development in the country concerning poverty alleviation, healthcare, and economic growth.
