Cloudburst sparks alert in Sikkim, tourists evacuated

GANGTOK: Towns and villages adjacent to Teesta river in Sikkim have been put on high alert after a cloudburst was reported in the upstream of Chungthang in North Sikkim.
Heavy inflow with muddy water and logs were seen at the NHPC Teesta Stage 5 dam in Dikchu after which people living in Singtam and Rangpo towns in East Sikkim district have been have been alerted through beat police.They have been cautioned not to venture near the river.
Chief minister Prem Sin-gh Tamang (Golay) expressed concern about stranded tourists in North Sikkim. He dire-cted state authorities and oth-er agencies to clear the road as soon as possible to help tourists reach their destinations.
Golay also directed state officials to take precautionary measures and closely monitor the water levels of Teesta river to prevent any damage to life and property.
By evening, 250-300 tourists stranded at Zima slide area were evacuated.