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North Sikkim Tourism Revives as Key Road Reopens After 2023 Floods

Tourist movement in North Sikkim has normalized following the reopening of the critical Toong-Naga Road, which was severely damaged in the October 2023 Glacial Lake Outburst Flood. Nearly 400 tourist vehicles are now visiting the Lachung region daily, with a new bridge to Lachen expected to open in February. Rehabilitation efforts are underway, including plans to shift 125 affected families to Upper Bojoghari in Gangtok and distribute land documents. The restoration, aided by the state, central agencies, and the Indian Army, marks a major step toward recovery for the region's tourism and displaced residents.

Key Points: North Sikkim Tourism Revives After Toong-Naga Road Reopens

  • Toong-Naga Road reopened
  • 400 tourist vehicles daily to Lachung
  • Bridge to Lachen due in February
  • 125 families to be resettled
  • Recovery from 2023 GLOF disaster
2 min read

North Sikkim sees tourism revival after Toong-Naga road reopens

Tourist flow returns to normal in North Sikkim as the Toong-Naga Road reopens after the 2023 GLOF disaster, with rehabilitation efforts ongoing.

"The tourist flow towards Lachung is running smoothly, with nearly 400 tourist vehicles visiting the region daily. - Nim Tshering Lepcha"

North Sikkim, January 27

Tourist movement in North Sikkim has returned to normal following the reopening of the Toong-Naga Road, according to Nim Tshering Lepcha, Chairman of the Sikkim Welfare Commission.

Speaking on the current situation, Lepcha said, "The tourist flow towards Lachung is running smoothly, with nearly 400 tourist vehicles visiting the region daily," adding 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 on 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 be reopened.

Addressing rehabilitation efforts, Lepcha said, "125 affected families from Rel, Naga and Toong wards will be shifted to Upper Bojoghari in Gangtok."

Land parchas will be distributed on 8 February, following which construction of permanent houses will begin.

The Toong-Naga region was severely affected by the October 2023 Glacial Lake Outburst Flood (GLOF), which triggered massive flooding along the Teesta basin. The disaster caused widespread destruction of roads, bridges, and settlements across North Sikkim. In the aftermath, continuous landslides further damaged the Toong-Naga road stretch, 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 major step towards normalcy, revival of tourism, and rehabilitation of affected residents in North Sikkim.

The Government of Sikkim has been prioritising the rehabilitation and resettlement of GLOF-affected families of Toong Naga and ensuring their safety, sustainability, and dignity.

In the immediate aftermath of GLOF 2023, the Indian Army, under Trishakti Corps, responded swiftly to support civil authorities. Army formations were deployed to provide evacuation assistance, medical aid, debris clearance, and the reopening of critical road links, restoring access to remote and cut-off areas in challenging terrain and weather conditions. Engineer resources established temporary connectivity solutions to maintain the movement of essential supplies and services.

- ANI

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Reader Comments

R
Rohit P
Great to see tourism bouncing back. 400 vehicles a day is a solid number. The infrastructure in our border states is crucial not just for the economy but also for strategic reasons. Kudos to the BRO and the Army for their efforts in that difficult terrain.
A
Aman W
While the reopening is positive, I hope the new construction is more disaster-resilient. The GLOF was a tragedy. We need to invest in better early warning systems and sustainable tourism practices in the Himalayas. Can't just rebuild the same way.
S
Sarah B
Visited Lachung last year before the floods. It's breathtakingly beautiful. The locals were so warm. My heart goes out to the displaced families. I'm glad to hear they are getting land parchas and permanent houses. That's the most important part of this recovery.
V
Vikram M
The Indian Army and BRO are the unsung heroes of our border regions. "Trishakti Corps" – Jai Hind! Their work in debris clearance and restoring links immediately after the disaster often goes unnoticed. Salute to their dedication.
K
Kriti O
Planning a trip to Sikkim later this year. This news makes me more confident. Hope the bridge to Lachen is completed on time. It's good to see the government prioritizing both tourism revival and the dignity of affected families. Balanced approach.

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