Sikkim Flash Flood Tragedy: 27 Bodies Recovered, Search Continues For 142 Missing

This tragic event, triggered by a cloudburst in the Teesta river, has left a profound impact on the region, affecting over 25,000 individuals and causing extensive damage to over 1,200 homes and 13 bridges. The picturesque Himalayan state has found itself isolated from the rest of the country due to damaged infrastructure, PTI reported.

In response to the crisis, Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang has announced immediate relief measures, including an ex-gratia payment for the families of the deceased and financial assistance for those sheltering in relief camps. While the extent of the damage is yet to be fully assessed, the primary focus remains on saving stranded individuals and providing immediate support.

The disaster has severely disrupted communication and transportation within the state, with road connectivity between districts severed, and numerous bridges washed away. The search for missing Army personnel continues both in Sikkim and the northern parts of West Bengal, where the Teesta river flows.

Amid this tragedy, the central government has pledged assistance, with Home Minister Amit Shah approving the release of Rs 44.8 crore from the State Disaster Response Fund (SDRF). An Inter-Ministerial Central Team (IMCT) will soon assess the damage caused by this catastrophic event, including a Glacial Lake Outburst Flood (GLOF), cloudburst, and flash floods.

The flash flood itself, originating from a cloudburst in Lhonak Lake, resulted in the accumulation of a massive volume of water that ultimately wreaked havoc on towns and villages downstream. This destructive force claimed the lives of 13 bridges, severely affecting key infrastructure like the NH-10, a lifeline for the state.

Efforts are underway to restore road connectivity, with a single lane now open for vehicular traffic between Singtam and Bardang. Additionally, the government has assured free medical treatment and logistical support for those seeking to return home from outside Sikkim.

Amid criticism regarding the construction of hydel power projects in the fragile Himalayas, Chief Minister Tamang attributed the situation to past governments' "flawed and substandard" developmental models. He also criticized political opportunism amid a natural calamity.

In a separate operation, around 3,000 tourists stranded in North Sikkim await rescue, which has been hindered by challenging weather conditions. The Indian Air Force's efforts to deploy Mi-17 helicopters have been hampered by inclement weather, low visibility, and cloud cover. These aerial rescue operations are expected to resume once weather conditions improve.

As the region braces for the possibility of further rain, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued warnings of light to moderate rain in Mangan district over the next five days. Lachen and Lachung are also expected to remain cloudy during this period.