Heavy Snowfall Along Indo-China Border, Red Alert Issued for Sikkim
Fresh snowfall covered the upper regions of the Indo-China border, particularly around Nathula Pass, on Friday, sharply lowering temperatures across Sikkim. Several high-altitude areas experienced sub-zero conditions, leading to travel disruptions along key mountain routes.
Weather Conditions and IMD Warning
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) reported heavy to very heavy snowfall in Nathula, Kupup, and Tsomgo (Changu) Lake regions since early morning. In light of the intense weather, the IMD has issued a red alert for Sikkim.
“Heavy to very heavy snowfall has been recorded across high-altitude zones, and severe weather is expected to persist for the next 24 hours,” the IMD warned.
Travel Advisory and Safety Measures
Authorities have urged tourists and transport operators to avoid higher elevations, as snow accumulation has made mountain roads dangerously slippery. The Border Roads Organisation (BRO) teams are working round the clock to clear routes and restore crucial connectivity.
Meanwhile, residents are advised to remain cautious and stay indoors. The state government has activated disaster response units to handle potential emergencies.
Temperature Outlook
Officials noted that temperatures in the Nathula region may fall even further overnight, potentially marking one of the earliest and heaviest snowfalls of the season.
Additional Developments
The Ministry of Environment, Forests, and Climate Change announced that the National Biodiversity Authority (NBA) released Rs 8.3 lakh to Biodiversity Management Committees (BMCs) in Uttar Pradesh and Sikkim under the Access and Benefit Sharing initiative of the Biological Diversity Act, 2002.
Author’s Summary: Severe early-season snowfall hit Sikkim’s border areas, prompting a red alert and emergency actions while development funds were released for biodiversity work.