North Sikkim Resumes Tourist Permits as New Bridge Reopens Route to Lachen

The Mangan district administration in North Sikkim will resume issuing permits from March 9 for tourists visiting Lachen, Gurudongmar Lake, and other areas, following disruptions caused by a 2023 glacial lake flood that damaged infrastructure. A newly completed 400-foot bailey suspension bridge over the Taram Chu on the Chungthang-Lachen Road has reopened, restoring connectivity. Traffic restrictions limit crossing to one light vehicle at a time within load capacity to ensure safety, with police monitoring compliance.