KalimNews (with inputs from SSB 72nd Battalion), Gyalshing, July 11, 2025 : In the wake of relentless heavy rainfall throughout the night, critical foot routes between key border areas in West Sikkim have been severely impacted by landslides and flooding, triggering significant concerns for the safety of security forces, local residents, and travelers alike.
A series of landslides have occurred along the vital route between Chouri Basti border outpost and Dhoban, including stretches from New Patal to Yuksam, which serve not only as important patrol paths for soldiers of the 72nd Battalion of the Sashastra Seema Bal (SSB) but also as daily routes for local villagers and trekking tourists. The rainfall-induced landslides have destabilized large portions of the trail, posing serious threats to both personnel and civilians who depend on this route for routine mobility and communication.
The 72nd Battalion of the SSB, responsible for border security in this region, has raised a high alert concerning the safety of the trail. Movement along this path has been deemed hazardous, and the public has been strongly advised to avoid using it under current conditions. Officials have notified the district administration and coordinated to initiate a unified relief and safety response plan in view of the growing threat.
Adding to the disruption, a wooden bridge located along the track connecting the Dhoban border post to Samvay Nayapatal (under the Nambu-Sindrabung Gram Panchayat Unit) was completely washed away around 9:00 PM last night. The Sakim Dhoban Khola river, swollen due to the persistent downpour, swept away the bridge, cutting off a crucial segment of the route. This has resulted in a total halt to foot traffic in that section, creating serious communication and logistical challenges for both local communities and border personnel.
The District Disaster Management Authority (DDMA) and local administrative bodies have been informed of the bridge collapse and requested to prioritize reconstruction efforts to restore access at the earliest. In the interim, troops from the 72nd Battalion are using an alternative route to maintain operations, and the battalion headquarters is actively monitoring the evolving situation on the ground.
Local villagers and travelers have been explicitly urged by the 72nd Battalion SSB stationed in Yuksum to refrain from using the affected foot track from Chouri to Dhoban until further notice. Authorities are stressing the importance of public cooperation to prevent any mishaps or emergencies in the landslide-prone terrain.
In case of emergencies, residents and trekkers are advised to immediately contact the nearest 72nd Battalion SSB border post or approach the local administration for assistance. Restoration of access and safety measures are underway, but until conditions improve, extreme caution and adherence to official advisories are being emphasized for the safety of all.
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