Mangan (Sikkim) [India], May 31 (HBTV): The India Meteorological Department (IMD) issued a red alert on Saturday following heavy rainfall and rising water levels in the Teesta River, warning of potential floods and landslides across the districts of Mangan, Gyalshing, and Soreng.

Based on a Nowcast Weather Alert from Baluwakhani in Gangtok, the IMD forecasted severe rainfall for two to three hours starting at 6:15 am today.

In response, the District Magistrate of Gangtok issued an urgent public notice: ‘The general public is requested not to panic but to stay alert. The concerned authorities will continue to provide timely updates as the situation evolves.’

The red alert in Mangan District is expected to particularly affect the Teesta River belt between Dikchu and Singtam, located within Gangtok district, if a flood-like situation develops in North Sikkim.

‘All Nodal Officers for Disaster Management from the line department under Gangtok District were asked to remain on high alert and keep in touch with your field functionaries stationed at this Teesta river belt,’ the notice stated.

Officials have been instructed to report emergencies directly to the District Control Room at 03592204995 or to respective district heads.

The DM further urged all officers to share the high-alert warning with their staff, family members, and villagers residing near the river: ‘Although concerned officers from the respective vulnerable stretch location have been informed and asked to remain on high alert, at your level too, disseminate the information of high alert to your staff, relatives, and villagers staying near the river belt today.’

Meanwhile, in North Sikkim, landslides triggered by the persistent downpour were reported in the Theeng and Chungthang areas, damaging multiple properties, as per the district administration.

The Teesta River’s water level has risen significantly due to the ongoing heavy rainfall, prompting authorities to activate emergency services and monitor water levels closely, particularly in low-lying and landslide-prone regions.

Disaster response teams across the affected districts have been placed on standby to respond to any emergencies.

The IMD has advised residents to avoid unnecessary travel, stay indoors whenever possible, and remain clear of riverbanks and vulnerable slopes.

As of now, no casualties have been reported, but the situation remains tense due to the continuous rainfall and rising river levels. Authorities have assured that further updates will be provided as conditions evolve.

(ANI)