the flash floods in Sikkim following a cloudburst, with parts of NH-10 washed away. Stay informed about the unfolding crisis, rescue efforts, and safety measures in the affected region. Your source for real-time news on Sikkim’s current situation
Sikkim, the picturesque northeastern state known for its natural beauty, has faced a severe crisis as flash floods wreaked havoc following a cloudburst incident near Lhonak Lake in North Sikkim. The aftermath of this natural disaster has disrupted connectivity to Sikkim, including its capital, Gangtok, as parts of NH-10, the vital lifeline connecting the state to the rest of the country, were washed away by the overflowing Teesta River.
Sikkim Flash Floods
The cloudburst, an intense and sudden rainfall event, led to the dramatic rise of water levels in the Teesta River, which meanders through Sikkim and West Bengal. As the situation rapidly unfolded, concerns grew for the safety of the residents and travelers in the region.
One of the most pressing concerns is the safety of 23 Army personnel who have been reported missing since the flash floods hit the area. A massive search and rescue operation is underway to locate them, highlighting the urgency of the situation.
Local residents captured the devastating impact of the flash floods in videos that circulated widely. These clips depicted a large section of a road being washed away by the raging river waters. The Central Water Commission reported that at 6 a.m. on Wednesday, the Teesta River was flowing below its warning level but was expected to cross that threshold within the next six hours.
According to reports from the Gangtok District Administration, the flash flood carved its path through the Teesta River, sweeping away the Indreni Bridge in Singtam town, located about 30 kilometers from Gangtok. Additionally, a connecting bridge in the Balutar hamlet met the same fate around 4 a.m. Many homes near the river basin in Singtam had to be evacuated, and residents found temporary shelter in relief camps set up in the town.
The turmoil extended to Chungthang town, situated approximately 90 kilometers north of Gangtok, near the Teesta Dam. Residents in this area were also rescued, as per the information provided by the defense ministry. Furthermore, the flash floods caused damage to two bridges in Dikchu and Toong towns, which serve as vital links connecting Singtam to Chungthang in North Sikkim. The Border Road Organisation (BRO) has taken up the task of rescuing locals in these affected areas.
In anticipation of the flash floods, authorities had earlier issued a warning in the north and east districts of Sikkim. The region had experienced heavy rainfall since the previous night, and the alert specifically mentioned the likelihood of low-lying areas such as Gazoldoba, Domohani, Mekhaliganj, and Ghish being affected.
Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang, who visited Singtam to assess the situation, expressed relief that there had been no reported injuries so far. However, significant damage to public property had occurred, and some people were missing. Relief operations were in full swing to address the crisis.
As a precautionary measure, residents living along the banks of the Teesta River were advised to evacuate their homes to ensure their safety. An alert message from the Sikkim State Disaster Management Authority urged all residents to stay vigilant and avoid traveling along the Teesta River basin.
The weather office issued a forecast stating, “Light to moderate rainfall is expected during the next 3–4 days over Sikkim,” indicating that the situation may continue to pose challenges in the coming days.
The flash floods in Sikkim serve as a stark reminder of the vulnerability of the region to natural disasters and highlight the importance of preparedness and swift response in the face of such emergencies. The authorities are working tirelessly to minimize the impact and provide support to those affected by this unfortunate event.
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