Teesta river turns muddy at Kalijhora after major landslide in North Sikkim
- Sep 06, 2026,
- Updated Sep 06, 2026, 4:55 PM IST
A major landslide in north Sikkim partially blocked the flow of the Teesta and Chyakoong rivers during the intervening night of September 5 and 6, prompting authorities to intensify monitoring along the downstream river belt.
The landslide occurred in the Naga Forest area along the Naga–Tosa Road, opposite the Theng Tunnel and near the confluence of the Teesta and Chyakoong rivers. A substantial portion of the hillside along a newly cut section of the road collapsed, sending debris into the river channels.
The debris temporarily obstructed the Teesta and partially blocked the Chyakoong River. Officials said the Teesta has continued to flow, while water has accumulated around the affected stretch. Water levels at monitoring points in Sankalang and Phidang were reported to be normal, although the river water had turned muddy.
The impact of the sediment-laden flow has been visible downstream, with the Teesta reported to be swollen and muddy as far as the Kalijhora Dam in West Bengal.
No casualties or injuries have been reported so far, while authorities continue to assess the extent of any damage in the affected area. Personnel from the Chungthang police and Theng police post are monitoring the site and river conditions.
The district administration has directed officials to maintain continuous surveillance of water levels and immediately report any significant changes. The Police Control Room has also been alerted to warn vulnerable areas in the lower belt as a precaution.
Residents and communities living downstream have been advised to remain alert and avoid approaching riverbanks until the situation is assessed further.
The latest developments come amid continuing landslide activity in parts of Sikkim during the monsoon. Earlier this week, authorities reported another major landslide in Gyalshing district that disrupted road connectivity, underscoring the heightened vulnerability of the Himalayan terrain during periods of heavy rainfall.