The catastrophic flash flood, a result of the cloudburst over Lhonak Lake, has severely impacted Sikkim’s mainstay – tourism. The disaster struck just as the tourism season was unfolding, putting at risk the industry that garners close to Rs 100 crore per month during its peak months, September to May.
Government officials have estimated a direct impact on at least 25,000 residents. More than 3,000 tourists, comprising both domestic and international visitors, were left stranded in various regions of the state. With the state’s infrastructure severely affected – roads and bridges washed away, and communication networks disrupted, especially in North Sikkim – the State Government has urged travellers to defer their plans to visit until conditions stabilise.
Sikkim’s Chief Minister, Prem Singh Tamang, commonly known as PS Golay, stated, “We are facing damages running into thousands of crores. However, specifics will emerge post a comprehensive assessment by a dedicated committee. Our primary focus right now is the rescue and immediate relief of those stranded.”
Key tourist attractions like Tsomgo Lake, Baba Mandir, and Nathu La have been temporarily closed for visitors. Meanwhile, local administration and defence forces continue to search for those missing, with around 8,000 people already seeking shelter in temporary relief camps.
The Indian Army reported accounting for approximately 1,500 outsiders trapped in the most affected flood areas. The Army is utilising helicopters to airdrop essential supplies to isolated groups, and concerted efforts are being made to restore vital infrastructure, said Chief Secretary VB Pathak.
Traditionally favoured by tourists from West Bengal, especially during the Durga Puja holidays, the devastation has led to numerous booking cancellations. Travel agents in Kolkata highlighted a surge in people from Bengal switching their travel plans, with popular alternatives being Darjeeling, Nepal, and Bhutan.
Raj Basu, the tourism advisor to the Sikkim Government, expressed deep concern, emphasising that lakhs in the state are directly or indirectly associated with tourism. He mentioned that everyone, irrespective of their location in the plains or hills, will feel the repercussions of this tragedy.
The destruction extended beyond tourism. Eight bridges in North Sikkim were obliterated, and NH-10 was breached at multiple locations. Chungthang was the hardest hit. Roshan Kumar, president of Sikkim’s Hotels Association, estimates a loss of Rs 1,800-2,000 crore in the tourism sector alone, potentially affecting the annual influx of about 1 million tourists.
Adding to the calamity’s scale, an ex-gratia compensation of Rs 4 lakh has been announced for families of the deceased, while relief of Rs 2,000 each will be provided to those in relief camps. The Centre, showing solidarity, has approved an advance of Rs 44.8 crore from the State Disaster Response Fund for relief efforts.
Union Home Minister Amit Shah has initiated an Inter-Ministerial Central Team to evaluate the extent of the damage. As Sikkim grapples with this unprecedented disaster, efforts are concentrated on relief, recovery, and rebuilding the state’s vital tourism sector.