Sikkim: Theng Tunnel Reopens for Upward Traffic After GLOF Closure
First Published: 19th December, 2024 13:11 IST
The closure of the tunnel severely impacted connectivity, affecting local communities and disrupting trade and travel in the region.
The Theng Tunnel in North Sikkim, which had been closed due to severe flood damage following last year’s catastrophic Glacial Lake Outburst Flood (GLOF), has been officially reopened for upward traffic toward Chungthang.
The reopening was celebrated with an inauguration ceremony led by Social Welfare Minister and Lachen-Mangan MLA Samdup Lepcha.
The GLOF-triggered floods caused widespread destruction in North Sikkim, washing away roads, bridges, and other vital infrastructure, including the Theng Tunnel, which serves as a key link between Gangtok and Chungthang.
The closure of the tunnel severely impacted connectivity, affecting local communities and disrupting trade and travel in the region.
After extensive repair and reconstruction efforts over the past year, the Theng Tunnel is now restored and operational.
The authorities have said that the tunnel is currently accessible only for vehicles travelling upward toward Chungthang.
The GLOF occurred at the Lhonak Lake in the Chungthang area of North Sikkim and caused a flash flood in the Teesta river basin on October 3, 2023.
The powerful floods caused by the GLOF completely destroyed vital infrastructure, roads, and houses.
COMMENTS
TOPMOST STORY NOW
Live Los Angeles Wildfires Day 8: Latest Updates Amid Red Flag Warnings, What Happens Next?
14th January 2025
Live Manipur CM Once Again Appeals for Peace, Urges People to Forgive, Forget, and Embrace a New Beginning
14th January 2025
Live Meghalaya: Congress Announces 3 More Candidates for JHADC Polls
14th January 2025
Live AK Mishra-Led 3-Member GOI Team in Dimapur for Talks with ENPO On Frontier Nagaland Territory Tomorrow
14th January 2025
WE RECOMMEND
Ed Sheeran Performance Row in Sikkim: CAP Questions CM’s Claims Amid Growing Debate
The initial announcement of Ed Sheeran’s potential involvement had sparked heated debates, with opposition parties accusing the government.
13th January 2025
Sikkim CM Announces Dzongu to Become Free Wi-Fi Zone
The announcement follows the successful implementation of a similar initiative in Rabdang village in the Singtam-Khamdong constituency.
13th January 2025
Chewabhanjyang Road Connecting Sikkim to Nepal to be Ready This Year: Minister NB Dahal
The strategic route, once operational, will bolster cross-border trade and tourism with Nepal.
10th January 2025
Sikkim: Heavy Snowfall Disrupts Traffic Movement on Several Routes. Check Details Here
Authorities have cancelled all advance permits for JN Road as a precaution
08th January 2025
Body of Sikkim Youth Missing Since Jan 5, Found
The deceased, identified as Prajal Pradhan, went missing after attending the ‘YAA Festival' in Sikkim’s Soreng district.
07th January 2025