Sikkim flash floods: We will submit our damage estimation report by second week of November, says Chief Secretary

In the wake of the devastating Teesta Dam disaster that struck the region, Sikkim Chief Secretary VB Pathak on October 22 shared an update on the ongoing efforts to address the calamity. As the recovery process gathers momentum, the government of Sikkim is now focused on not only temporary restoration but also planning for permanent recovery, Pathak stated.

"We hope that by the second week of November, we will submit our damage estimation report," Pathak affirmed the commitment of the Sikkim government to provide a comprehensive assessment of the destruction caused by the disaster. This follows the submission of a temporary damage estimation report to the Government of India, which has provided initial insights into the extent of the damage.

Stating the importance of permanent restoration, Pathak stated that temporary measures are just a short-term solution. The path towards permanent recovery is capital-intensive, requiring significant funds. "We have initiated the process of estimating these costs, and we will provide daily updates on our progress until October 28," Pathak assured.

Chief Secretary VB Pathak announced that the Sangkalang bridge will reopen starting from October 27, facilitating smoother travel for residents and visitors. For those heading to Dikchu, a single lane is now available, with plans to create a double lane within two to three weeks.

Furthermore, the government is set to open the Chungthang bridge in time for Diwali, bringing relief to the local population. Pathak disclosed that a new alignment for Naga has been established, with 1.5 kilometers of excavation work already completed. 
"The government is committed to restoring access to Naga by February 28, 2024, enabling seamless travel via Sangkalang.", he added.