Report by Drishti Baheti
Nestled in the Himalayas, Sikkim, India’s northeastern gem was hit by a flash flood on the night of 03-04 October 2023.
This occurred due to the outburst of the South Lhonak Lake in North Sikkim.
The Teesta River is next to the districts of Lachung, Dikchu, Singtam and Rangpo. This flood led to large-scale damage to property and life. The level of the Teesta River increased by 30-40 feet overnight. As per the estimate done by the state government, an estimate 142 people are missing, out of which 26 have been found.
Many tourists and residents had to evacuate and displace from their residencies leaving behind all of their belongings. The affected areas faced acute shortages of essential supplies, clean drinking water, and medical facilities. An Indian Army camp set next to the Teesta River was washed away. A vehicle parking in Burdang where 39 vehicles and 23 soldiers took an overnight halt was submerged in silt.
Besides the loss of property, the floods caused widespread deforestation and soil erosion.
The state and central government swiftly responded to the crisis, releasing emergency funds for relief and rehabilitation. Temporary shelters were erected, and medical teams were sent to provide healthcare services. Rescue operations were launched by the government and various non-governmental organizations. Helicopters airlifted stranded villagers and tourists to safer locations, while relief camps were set up to provide shelter and food to the displaced families. Rehabilitation plans were formulated to rebuild the damaged infrastructure, including roads, bridges, and electricity supply lines.
While the floods continue, the efforts of the local volunteers and the Government provide aid to all those who are dislocated and focus on rebuilding the destroyed infrastructure.