Sikkim’s Theng Tunnel Reopens For Upward Traffic After GLOF Closure

GANGTOK: The Theng Tunnel in North Sikkim was closed due to significant flood damage following last year's devastating Glacial Lake Outburst Flood (GLOF). However, it has now been formally reopened for upward traffic towards Chungthang.

Samdup Lepcha, the Social Welfare Minister and Lachen-Mangan MLA, presided over the inaugural event held to commemorate the reopening.
Roads, bridges, and other essential infrastructure, such as the Theng Tunnel, which is a crucial connection between Gangtok and Chungthang, were washed away by the floods brought on by the GLOF, causing extensive damage in North Sikkim.

The tunnel's closure had a significant impact on connectivity, upsetting local residents and interfering with regional trade and travel.

Theng Tunnel is fully functioning and restored following a year of intensive repair and renovation work. According to the officials, only cars heading upward towards Chungthang can now use the tunnel.

On October 3, 2023, the GLOF struck the Lhonak Lake in the Chungthang region of North Sikkim, resulting in a flash flood in the Teesta river basin.
The GlOF's devastating floods totally damaged buildings, roads, and other essential infrastructure.

After the fallout from the catastrophic Glacial Lake Outburst Flood (GLOF) that happened on the night between October 3 and October 4, 2023 witnessed by North Sikkim, a landslip near Theng Tunnel blocked a vital route that passes through Toong Naga and connects Chungthang and Mangan.

Both locals and visitors had experienced difficulties as a result of the landslide's disruption of vital transportation links in the area.

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