Mangan, February 2 (IPR): A public meeting on the National Landslide Risk Mitigation Project (NLRMP) was convened today at the Nagar Panchayat Hall, Mangan, to deliberate on mitigation measures for the landslide-prone Rafong Khola area in Mangan District. The meeting aimed to engage stakeholders and local residents in discussions on risk assessment, scientific planning, and effective implementation of the project.
The meeting commenced with a welcome address by Special Secretary-cum-Director, Sikkim State Disaster Management Authority (SSDMA), Mr Prabhakar Rai, who provided an overview of the objectives of the meeting. He briefed the participants on the proposed national project, the issues to be addressed, and shared background information on earlier mitigation efforts undertaken in the Rafong Khola area, highlighting lessons learnt.
Addressing the gathering, the Relief Commissioner-cum-Secretary, Land Revenue & Disaster Management Department, Mr Rinzing Chewang Bhutia, stated that the national-level landslide mitigation project at Rafong Khola is the result of sustained efforts and continuous pursuance by Chief Minister Mr Prem Singh Tamang, along with the Area MLA. He emphasized the importance of cooperation and active participation from local residents throughout the implementation process. Responding to a proposal by the Secretary, Water Resources Department, regarding the need for a contour survey of the entire vulnerable belt, the Relief Commissioner informed that the survey could be initiated immediately as part of the risk assessment process.
Secretary, Water Resources Department, Mr LD Lamtha in his address provided technical inputs to take the project forward. He stressed on the need for a contour survey of the entire area, and to study the source of Rafong Khola. He also reiterated the need for strengthening the foundation of the wall and bed along Teesta river at Sangkalang initially, before carrying out any intervention at the affected area near Mangan Bazar.
Senior Geologist, Mines & Geology Department, Ms Indira Sharma, shared technical insights on the geological conditions of the area, including rock quality, soil composition, and overall land stability, stressing the need for scientific and geology-based interventions.
The District Collector, Mangan, Mr Anant Jain, shared his firsthand experience of the risks posed by Rafong Khola, which affects the entire stretch from Pakshep to Ringhim. He cited instances of continuous seepage and waterlogging in his official residence and nearby areas, underlining the urgent need for a detailed survey and immediate mitigation measures. He emphasized the importance of coordinated action by concerned departments and enhanced public participation for the successful execution of the project.
An open discussion session followed, during which members of the public actively participated and shared concerns and suggestions. Key issues raised included the construction of protection walls, source walls, breast walls, and the development of an effective drainage system to mitigate landslide risks. Participants stressed the need for scientific planning, proper water channelization, timely execution of works, regular maintenance of drains, and strict monitoring of construction quality. The discussion remained constructive and solution-oriented, with a strong emphasis on community cooperation.
Earlier, Geotechnical Engineer Mr Pemzang Tenzing, who was associated with earlier mitigation works at Rafong Khola, shared technical inputs and highlighted critical lessons learnt from previous projects, emphasizing factors to be considered for the upcoming implementation.
After patiently hearing the views and suggestions of public representatives, officials, and residents, the Minister-cum-Area MLA, Mr Samdup Lepcha, reiterated that the National Landslide Risk Mitigation Project at Rafong Khola has been sanctioned by the Government of India following sustained efforts by the Chief Minister. He urged all concerned departments to draw lessons from earlier projects and stressed the need for utmost vigilance, transparency, and adherence to the highest technical standards during implementation.
The Minister also expressed concern over the poor drainage system in Mangan town, which contributes to soil instability, and appealed to residents to maintain individual drainage systems to ensure overall regional safety. He suggested the constitution of a monitoring committee to oversee the project’s implementation and appealed to landowners to extend full cooperation and provide necessary clearances for smooth execution of works.
The Minister thanked the Relief Commissioner cum Secretary, LR&DM, Secretary Water Resources Department and the entire team of engineers and officers for their presence and participation.
The meeting concluded with the vote of thanks proposed by ADM Mangan Mr Pema Wangchen Namkarpa.
The public meeting was anchored by Deputy Director, SSDMA, Mr Keshav Koirala.
The meeting was attended by Chairman, Sikkim Welfare Commission, Mr Nim Tshering Lepcha, Pipons, Panchayats, Counsellors, Principal Chief Engineer, Water Resources Department, Mr Rajiv Subba, Chief Engineer Mr Kamal Gurung, SDM Mangan Mr Sandeep Kumar, MEO Mr Karzong Bhutia, officials from line departments, members of the public and other stakeholders.
After the meeting, the Minister, along with the officers and members of the public, visited the site of the previous mitigation project below Mangan Bus Stand.
- Report from DIO Mangan