Sikkim Villagers Demand Action Against BRO Over Road Construction Damage

Gangtok: Eight families from Tintek Marchak in Sikkim's Zang village have formally appealed to the District Administrative Centre in Gangtok, calling for urgent government intervention and rehabilitation. The residents attribute the destruction of their homes to ongoing road construction activities along the Dikchu to Singtam route, which is being managed by the Border Roads Organisation (BRO).

According to the formal representation submitted on May 15, the disaster resulted in the total destruction of three houses and significant damage to five others. The affected families claim that the project lacked essential drainage systems, causing heavy water accumulation that compromised the stability of their properties. Local authorities, including members of the Rakdong Tintek Block Development Office, the Disaster Management Team, and panchayat representatives, have inspected the site and noted that poor construction management significantly worsened the impact of the natural calamity.

The villagers have expressed frustration over the perceived absence of BRO officials and the associated construction agency during the crisis, despite multiple requests for support. In addition to seeking immediate financial relief and housing support, the residents are demanding a comprehensive investigation into the project's safety standards. They have also urged the administration to mandate the implementation of proper drainage infrastructure to protect the village from future incidents.