Flash Floods in Sikkim: Urgent Rescue Efforts Underway as 102 People Go Missing
Image source: The Daily Guardian
In a race against time, Indian authorities are mounting massive rescue operations in the wake of devastating flash floods that struck the northeastern state of Sikkim. Triggered by the bursting of a glacial lake in the Himalayas, the floods have left 102 people missing, including 22 army personnel, and have claimed the lives of at least 14 individuals.
The calamity unfolded when the Lhonak Lake breached its embankment on a fateful night, following heavy rains in the region. The breach led to a rapid surge in water levels in the Teesta River, inundating the Lachen Valley and surrounding areas. The situation escalated further when water was released from a nearby dam, causing water levels downstream to rise dramatically, with reports indicating heights of 15-20 feet.
Tragically, nearly 14 people were trapped in the tunnels of the dam as floodwaters surged. The search and rescue operations have been complicated by incessant rains and fast-flowing waters, and infrastructure, including roads and bridges, has been significantly damaged.
India’s space agency, ISRO, provided satellite images that revealed the striking changes in the size of the lake, highlighting the severity of the situation. The Indian army swiftly launched a massive search operation to locate and rescue the missing individuals. Despite the challenging conditions, one soldier was successfully rescued and is in stable condition.
In addition to the missing, rescue personnel have also been retrieving bodies, including that of a child, from the flood plains of the Teesta River in Singtam. Mobile coverage in the affected regions has been disrupted, adding to the difficulties faced by those coordinating the rescue efforts.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi has assured Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang of all possible support in this critical time. Helplines have been established for the families of the missing, including those of the soldiers.
The impact of the floods has not been confined to Sikkim alone. Northern parts of neighboring West Bengal state have also been affected as the Teesta River overflowed, causing inundation in several districts. The West Bengal government has been working to rescue and relocate affected individuals, with Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee stating that 10,000 people have been rescued and moved to relief camps.
Sikkim, nestled in the Himalayas, has a history of being prone to floods and natural disasters. Last year, severe flooding in the region displaced tens of thousands and tragically claimed the lives of at least 24 people.
As rescue efforts continue and the extent of the damage becomes clearer, the focus remains on locating the missing individuals and providing relief and support to those affected by this devastating natural disaster.
Team Profile
- News Writer
- Harshit Tokas is a Political Science and International Affairs Post-Graduate with a passion for understanding and analyzing complex political landscapes. Skilled in research, data analysis, and policy development. Eager to contribute his knowledge and insights to drive positive change.
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