Gangtok, February 28: A joint inspection was carried out at Nandok on Saturday to assess the extent of damage caused by recent earthquake tremors to the historic Nandok Monastery and nearby residential areas. The inspection was led by Tenzing Lamtha, MLA of the Syari–Tathangchen Constituency, as part of the government's ongoing efforts to evaluate structural damage and ensure the safety of local residents.
The inspection team comprised officials from the District Disaster Management Authority (DDMA), Gangtok District, the concerned Zilla Panchayat Member, members of the Nandok Monastery Management Committee, and local residents. The team conducted a detailed assessment of the monastery premises as well as neighbouring settlements that have reportedly been affected by the recent seismic activity.
During the visit, monastery officials informed the team that the historic structure had first developed cracks following the devastating 2011 Sikkim earthquake. According to them, the recent tremors have aggravated the existing damage, leading to significant structural deterioration in several sections of the monastery. Concerned about the safety of monks, devotees, and visitors, the monastery management has already shifted valuable religious artefacts and sacred objects to a temporary shed for safekeeping.
As an immediate precautionary measure, bamboo supports have been installed at vulnerable portions of the building to provide temporary stability and minimise the risk of collapse. However, officials observed that the condition of the monastery has deteriorated to the extent that it is presently unsafe for religious gatherings and public access.
Following the inspection, the team recommended that the monastery premises be cordoned off to prevent accidents and safeguard public safety. The monastery management committee was advised to restrict entry until a comprehensive structural assessment is completed and appropriate restoration or reconstruction measures are undertaken.
During the visit, the inspection team also surveyed nearby residential areas, where several houses were found to have developed cracks as a result of the recent earthquake tremors. In addition, minor landslides were reported at a few locations, raising concerns about slope stability and the safety of surrounding communities.
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Addressing local residents, MLA Tenzing Lamtha assured that the State Government would extend all possible assistance to facilitate the restoration of the monastery and support affected families. He said the government remains committed to preserving the region's cultural and religious heritage while ensuring the safety and well-being of the people.
Officials stated that detailed technical assessments would be carried out in the coming days to determine the extent of structural damage and identify suitable rehabilitation and mitigation measures. Necessary steps will also be taken to strengthen disaster preparedness and ensure that affected areas receive timely assistance.
