Gangtok, Oct 22: In an impressive joint effort involving the Indian Army, the Border Roads Organisation (BRO), civil administration, and local residents, extensive operations are underway to reestablish connectivity to North Sikkim.
To offer immediate relief and restore access to Chungthang via the alternate route of Mangan-Sanklang-Theng-Chungthang, the troops of the Trishakti Corps are diligently constructing a Bailey Bridge at Mangan-Sanklang Crossing. This new bridge is located 200 meters upstream from where a bamboo bridge and Zipline were previously established.
The situation presented a unique challenge as the width of the Teesta River had expanded to 600 feet, with water flowing through two separate channels and a 160-foot island in between. Consequently, a decision was made to construct two distinct bridges. The first bridge, spanning 150 feet, was successfully completed by the Army on October 22. The second bridge is expected to be finished by October 27.
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While the Border Roads Organisation (BRO) concentrates its efforts on reconnecting the primary Mangan-Tung-Chungthang route, the Indian Army, in collaboration with the BRO, local communities, and the civil administration, is dedicated to opening up the alternate route Mangan-Sanklang-Theng-Chungthang. This endeavor entails the construction of two Bailey bridges over the Teesta River at Mangan-Sanklang Crossing.
The areas of North Sikkim leading up to Mangan have been isolated since October 4. In response to this critical situation, footbridges and zip lines were promptly established at Chungthang and Sanklang-Mangan Crossing. These innovations have enabled the movement of people on foot and facilitated the transportation of essential relief supplies via the established zip lines.
In addition to these developments, the Army’s construction of Bailey bridges represents a pivotal step in reestablishing critical connectivity to North Sikkim, underscoring the collective dedication to the region’s well-being.
