In an unforeseen series of incidents, flash floods in Sikkim have significantly affected connectivity. The flash floods were triggered by a cloudburst which ended up flooding the Teesta River. Many people have been severely affected by the floods. While no reports of death have been found yet, many people have been reported missing. Among the missing are 23 personnel from the Indian Army. These Sikkim flash floods have caused significant damage to infrastructure as well.
Sikkim Flash Floods: Parts Of NH-10 Washed Away
The flash floods in Sikkim triggered by a cloudburst have caused significant damage to infrastructure. Parts of the National Highway 10, which is a major roadway in the state, have been washed away. This has affected the connectivity in the state, including to its capital Gangtok.
The cloudburst which triggered the flash floods took place at the Lhonak Lake which is located in Northern Sikkim. According to an article recently published by NDTV, flash floods also completely swept away Indreni Bridge which is located in Singtam.
The article also mentioned that one other connecting bride located in Balutar was also completely washed away. Rescue operations are underway and temporary relief camps have also been set up for people affected by the floods.
Also Read: No More Tourist Permits In North Sikkim’s Landslide-Prone Chungthang As Weather Conditions Worsen
23 Army Personnel Missing Due To Flooding
Numerous people have been reported missing owing to these flash floods. Among the people who have gone missing are 23 personnel from the Indian Army. A search and rescue operation is underway. According to an article recently published in News18, Army vehicles parked at Singtam’s Bardang have also been submerged.
Since Internet connectivity is low in the region, the army is also facing operational difficulties. The Border Road Organisation or the BRO is currently attempting to rescue those affected by the calamity. People from Chungthang town have also been successfully rescued.
43 People Missing; PM Tweets
People who reside near the Teesta River have also been advised to evacuate their homes. In addition to 23 Jawans, at least 20 other people are missing. The Prime Minister took to his X (formerly, Twitter) account and stated that all possible support will be provided for the dire situation.
Also Read: Sikkim Landslides: Indian Army Rescues 3,800 Tourists So Far From Harsh Weather Conditions
Do you know anybody who is in Sikkim? How are they managing through the flood? Let us know in the comments below!
Cover Image Credits: @aapkadharm & @tejasgujarathi/X (Formerly, Twitter)