Fresh major landslide hits Rimbi in Sikkim, over 30 houses affected

A major landslide in the Rimbi area of Gyalshing district, Sikkim, India, affected more than 30 houses on Thursday night.

The landslide, which followed continuous rainfall, sent mud, rocks and debris into the Yuksom-Tashiding area settlement. It damaged several structures, including a government residence belonging to the electricity department.

Many families have been forced to leave their homes for safer locations. Sikkim Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang said the situation was serious and that the safety and welfare of the people remained the government's top priority. According to him, the administration is closely monitoring the situation.

While heavy rain was the immediate trigger for the landslide, the area's terrain, water pressure, drainage conditions and soil type are said to have increased the risk. The meteorological department has forecast further heavy rain in the coming days, raising the risk of additional landslides in the already unstable Rimbi area. Local residents remain fearful.