Landslides claims ten lives in India, Nepal

DELHI/KATHMANDU: At least ten people lost their lives in the Himalayan regions of India and Nepal as a result of severe flooding, landslides, and heavy rainfall on Friday.

The extreme weather conditions also left more than 2,400 tourists stranded in the northeastern Indian state of Sikkim, where roads are currently blocked by landslides and several bridges have been damaged by heavy rainfall.

Read more: India heatwave kills at least 33, including election officials

Local authorities in Sikkim confirmed six deaths from floods, while another four deaths occurred in Koshi, Nepal due to landslides. The relentless rain in Sikkim has also caused extensive damage, including houses, roads, bridges, and other infrastructure.

Sikkim is particularly vulnerable to extreme weather conditions exacerbated by climate change. The state is home to almost 30 mountain peaks and 20 glaciers. A glacial lake burst resulted in several deaths among locals in 2023.

Authorities in Sikkim are currently engaged in efforts to clear debris and restore connectivity. “The damage is severe, so it will take time, but we aim to restore connectivity within a week,” stated a local official.

The India Meteorological Department has forecasted ongoing rainfall in the state, indicating continued challenges in the days ahead.

Read more: India’s heat wave hits marginalised Dalit caste

Landslides and floods in India coincide with record-breaking summer temperatures in other parts of the country. The extreme heat and rising temperatures threaten the country’s efforts at alleviating poverty, improving citizens’ health while also trying to economically grow.

The current heat crisis is also exacerbating the longstanding caste issues in India, a country of 1.4 billion people. According to DW, the ongoing severe heat wave has resulted in over 200 deaths, with the situation particularly critical for oppressed groups such as the Dalits.

The Dalit are considered the ‘undesirable’ or ‘lower’ caste who face heightened risks due to their employment in informal labour. Despite alerts issued by the India Meteorological Department, brick kiln workers continue to endure inhumane conditions without adequate protection from the heat.

This situation has also shed light on broader issues of socio-economic inequality within India’s caste-based society.