Flash Floods in Sikkim: 23 Army Personnel missing; search ops underway

The release of water from the Chungthang dam led to a sudden increase in water level up to 15-20 feet downstream

At least 23 Army personnel are reported missing after a flash flood in the Teesta River triggered by a cloud burst near Lhonak Lake in North Sikkim hit army establishments along the Lachen valley early this morning, an army release released a short while ago said. The Valley is situated along the Teesta River that is now flowing turbulently.

The release of water from the Chungthang dam too had led to a sudden increase in water level of up to 15-20 feet downstream.

“Due to sudden cloud burst over Lhonak Lake in North Sikkim, a flash flood occurred in the Teesta River in Lachen valley. Some army establishments along the valley have been affected and efforts are on to confirm details,” the army release stated.

As per the release, the flash flood led to Army vehicles parked at Bardang, near Singtam, getting buried under the mud and slush. Search operations are underway.

In the meanwhile, residents of the Dikchu, Singtam, and Rangpo areas were promptly alerted and successfully evacuated to safer areas.

The Sikkim State Disaster Management Authority (SSDMA) has advised people to stay alert and avoid traveling along the river basin.

SP (Mangan District), Sonam Detchu, confirmed the high alert and stated that all the police stations in the low-lying areas have been put on alert, and the residents residing along the banks of the Teesta River have been urgently advised to evacuate to higher ground for their safety.

Also Read: Sikkim floods: 2 dead, state on high alter after Teesta river overflows

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