After a cloud burst above Lhonak Lake in North Sikkim caused flash floods in the Teesta River in Lanchen valley, at least 23 Army officers have been listed as missing.

According to officials, the Teesta river's water level rose by up to 15-20 feet as a result of the abrupt release of water from the Chungthang dam, which also caused army camps to be washed away and cars to be submerged.

The floods, which began at 1:30 am, also harmed certain army facilities in the valley, and efforts are being made to confirm more information. Unsettling images taken in Singtam show the river rushing at full speed, wiping away automobiles and flooding roads.

Prem Singh Tamang, the chief minister of Sikkim, took to X after assessing the situation in Singtam and wrote, “We are all aware of the recent natural calamity that has struck our state. Emergency services have been mobilized to the affected areas, and I personally visited Singtam to assess the damages and engage with the local community.” He also urged people to maintain their composure and avoid any excessive travel.

flash floods

In reviewing the situation, BJP state president Dr. Thapa stated, "Several properties have been damaged.  I request all institutions to support Sikkim. I took stock of the situation in the morning and will do it again.”

Army trucks parked at Bardang near Singtam have been impacted by the flash floods, according to officials. While 23 soldiers are still missing, around 41 Army vehicles were also buried in the slush.

In Mangan, Gangtok, Pakyong, and Namchi Districts, the Glacial Lake Outburst Flood (GLOF) has caused significant damage, according to the State Disaster Management Authority's report. According to the Central Water Commission (CWC), the flooding started at midnight on October 3 and continued until the early hours of October 4, when substantial flooding of the Teesta River from Chungthang was recorded.

Area's poor internet connectivity

As a result of the area's poor internet connectivity, the Army is currently facing operational difficulties in the rescue operations. Connecting with people on the ground is challenging for command level personnel. Rescue efforts are being made for the missing.

The State Home Guard and Civil Defence, Gangtok, and NDRF Pakyong teams that make up the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) have already been sent to the affected districts.

The four NDRF teams have arrived and are helping with the rescue efforts. The teams are in Singtam, with one team each in Kurseong, Kalimpong, and Jalpaiguri. The search efforts are under progress.

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