Heavy Snowfall Along Indo-China Border Sparks Red Alert in Sikkim
Recent Weather Conditions
Fresh snowfall blanketed the higher elevations along the Indo-China border, including the Nathula Pass, on Friday. Temperatures in several high-altitude regions dropped sharply below zero, disrupting movement on key mountain routes.
Details of Snowfall
- The India Meteorological Department (IMD) reported heavy to very heavy snowfall in and around Nathula, Kupup, and Tsomgo (Changu) Lake since early morning.
- Temperatures are expected to fall further overnight, making this one of the earliest and heaviest snowfalls of the season.
Official Response and Warnings
The IMD issued a red alert for Sikkim, warning of continued severe weather over the next 24 hours.
"The IMD has issued a red alert for Sikkim, warning of continued severe weather conditions over the next 24 hours."
Local authorities advised tourists and transport operators to avoid higher elevations due to slippery roads caused by snow accumulation. The Border Roads Organisation (BRO) is actively clearing snow to maintain essential connectivity.
Residents are urged to take necessary precautions, and disaster response teams remain on standby.
Additional Developments
The National Biodiversity Authority (NBA) has allocated Rs 8.3 lakh to Biodiversity Management Committees (BMCs) in Uttar Pradesh and Sikkim under the Biological Diversity Act, 2002, to support local biodiversity initiatives, as announced by the Ministry of Environment, Forests, and Climate Change.
Author's Summary
Heavy snowfall in Sikkim has triggered a red alert, impacting transportation and safety, with authorities vigilantly managing ongoing weather hazards and biodiversity conservation efforts.