The Mangan district administration in Sikkim has ordered the closure of all government schools immediately, citing safety concerns for students due to recent heavy rainfall. The closure, announced today by District Magistrate Hem Kumar Chettri, applies to all government schools across the district's Mangan and Dzongu blocks.
Incessant rains lashing the region since June 12th have triggered multiple landslides and caused widespread property damage, according to a Press Trust of India (PTI) report. These downpours have also led to road blockages, severely impacting connectivity within the district.
The district administration, prioritizing student safety, made the difficult decision to close schools until further notice. The order encompasses schools in Manul, Singhik, Mangan, and Mangshilla clusters within the Mangan block. Additionally, schools in Lingdong, Hee Gyathang, Passingdong, Lingzya, Tingvong, and Gor clusters of the Dzongu block will remain closed.
While the closure date remains open-ended, authorities have assured that school heads and staff will be at their respective stations. The administration will continue to monitor the situation and issue further directives based on safety assessments.
This decision comes amidst ongoing efforts to address the aftermath of the heavy rains. Local authorities are working tirelessly to clear blocked roads and assess the extent of the damage.
Mangan, a scenic district in North Sikkim, is a popular tourist destination known for its breathtaking natural beauty. However, the recent downpours have caused significant disruption, impacting not only schools but potentially affecting regional tourism.
With the monsoon season still underway, residents remain cautious and vigilant. The Sikkim government has advised people to stay informed about weather updates and exercise caution in landslide-prone areas.