6 days since Teesta flash flood, Sikkim and North Bengal begin picking up the pieces

Nearly a week has passed since the relentless flash flooding in Sikkim, and the turbulent waters have finally subsided, leaving behind a haunting trail of devastation that has left both the landscape and its people deeply scarred.

74 lives have been lost, and the once-pristine terrain now bears the scars of nature's fury.

It all began on October 4 when a catastrophic glacial lake outburst struck the region. This devastating incident occurred at Lhonak Lake and resulted in an abrupt and alarming increase in the water level of the Teesta River, surging by an astonishing 30 feet.

The immediate consequence of this surge was extensive flash flooding and damage throughout the Himalayan state.

Current situation

• The Trishakti Corps of the Indian Army has launched an operation in North Sikkim with the aim of restoring surface travel connectivity.Recent flash floods have caused damage to footbridges, roads, and infrastructure.
• Support is being provided by the Border Roads Organisation (BRO), Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP), and local residents.
• The primary focus is on reconnecting isolated villages in the region.

The Chungthang dam was swept away due to poor construction quality, resulting in widespread destruction.

The Indian Army has successfully reached the isolated village of Rabom, Northwest of Chungthang, and is currently engaged in rescuing 150-200 civilians.

Also Read: Why the Sikkim flash flood was a catastrophe waiting to happen

Evacuation and recovery efforts

• Authorities have conducted a headcount of all tourists and locals in Chaten, Lachen, Lachung, and Thangu in North Sikkim.
• A list of 2000 tourists, including 63 foreigners, has been compiled, and they are being provided with food, medical assistance, accommodation, and phone connections.
• The Indian Army and officials have assessed the damage and devised plans to repair the roads across the entire state.
• Sikkim's Chief Minister, PS Tamang, has committed to providing land and forest resources for rebuilding efforts.
• The Gurudwara in Chungthang is providing food assistance to the affected people.
• Medical assistance is available in all locations, and over 1,500 patients have been treated so far with the assistance of the Trishakti Healers.

Also Read: Sikkim flash flood death toll rises to 74 after 41 bodies recovered in West Bengal's Jalpaiguri

Announcements regarding lost ammunitions

The Sikkim government has issued a crucial warning to the public:

• Residents have been alerted to the possibility of encountering explosives and ammunition along the Teesta River.
• This warning follows a flash flood that damaged an army ammunition depot in North Sikkim.
• To address this alarming situation, public service announcements in the form of small posters and pamphlets have been placed on e-rickshaws and local vehicles, instructing individuals to report any discoveries of explosives or bullets to the authorities for the safety of all.

The flash flood, triggered by the overflow of South Lhonak, a Himalayan glacial lake, has claimed the lives of at least 74 people, including nine soldiers, with over 100 individuals still missing.

Glacial lake outbursts, often triggered by heavy rains, earthquakes, or avalanches, can be mitigated with early warning systems. These systems enable timely evacuations and the controlled release of water from downstream dams to minimize flash flood damage.