02/06/2026
High-Level Committee Reviews Restoration and Long-Term Connectivity Measures at Tarum Chu
Mangan: In response to the recurring road blockages between Chungthang and Lachen, including the recent disruption at Tarum Chu that has caused significant economic losses and hardship to the people of Lachen, a High-Level Committee was constituted under the direction and guidance of Hon’ble Chief Minister Shri Prem Singh Tamang (Golay), Government of Sikkim.
The Committee comprises Shri A.B. S***a, PCE-cum-Secretary (Roads & Bridges); Smt. Dicky Yongzom, IAS, Secretary (Mines & Geology); Shri Hem Kumar Chettri, Special Secretary, Land Revenue & Disaster Management Department (LRDMD); the Chief Conservator of Forests (Forest Department); Chief Engineer, GREF; Shri Anant Jain, IAS District Collector North); Shri Arun Chettri, SDM, Chungthang; Shri Bijay S***a, SDPO, Chungthang; and the Pipon of Lachen Dzumsa.
On June 2, 2026, the Committee conducted an extensive site inspection at Tarum Chu to assess the situation on the ground and review the progress of the makeshift road currently under construction. The temporary restoration work involves extensive rock-cutting operations aimed at restoring connectivity between Chungthang and Lachen at the earliest.
During the inspection, GREF officials briefed the Committee on the ongoing restoration efforts and informed that the works are progressing steadily and are expected to be completed broadly as per schedule. The Committee also deliberated on various options for both immediate restoration and long-term connectivity solutions for the affected stretch.
GREF further apprised the Committee of permanent mitigation measures being planned, including the construction of a 200-metre-span Steel Double Arch Bridge across the vulnerable section. The proposed bridge is envisioned as a durable and long-term solution to ensure uninterrupted connectivity in the area.
Additionally, the feasibility of constructing an approximately 186-metre-long tunnel to bypass the affected zone was discussed in detail. The Committee examined the proposal as an alternative permanent restoration measure and emphasized the need for sustainable, resilient, and future-ready infrastructure to safeguard connectivity in North Sikkim.
The visit underscores the State Government’s commitment to addressing the challenges faced by the people of Lachen and ensuring reliable, all-weather road connectivity in the region through coordinated planning and timely intervention.