Flash Flood In Sikkim: Death Toll Rises To 18, Rescue Operations Underway

A flash flood triggered by a cloudburst over Lhonak Lake has resulted in the loss of 18 lives so far. The army and NDRF teams continue their search for the remaining missing persons amidst challenging conditions.

The catastrophic flash flooding that hit Sikkim on Wednesday has left a devastating trail of destruction, with the death toll rising to 18 as per the latest reports. Army and National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) teams are tirelessly working through slushy earth and water sheets in the Teesta river basin and downstream north Bengal for the second consecutive day, in an arduous search operation for those who were swept away by the floodwaters and remain missing.

Flash Floods: The Devastating Aftermath

Chief Secretary V B Pathak confirmed that eighteen bodies have been recovered so far while 98 people, including 22 army personnel, still remain unaccounted for. This disaster was triggered by a cloudburst over Lhonak Lake in North Sikkim during the early hours of Wednesday morning.

In addition to this grim news, it has been reported that four of the deceased were identified as 'jawans' according to an official statement from neighbouring West Bengal's government. Furthermore, twenty-six individuals have suffered injuries due to these unforeseen floods and are currently receiving treatment at various hospitals across Sikkim.

Rescue Operations Underway

The calamity has affected approximately 22,034 people according to data released by the Sikkim State Disaster Management Authority (SSDMA). However, amidst this chaos there is a glimmer of hope as so far rescue operations have successfully saved around 2,011 people from precarious situations caused by this natural disaster.

Pathak further updated on another crucial aspect - he was informed by officials from Army’s 27th Mountain Division that tourists stranded in Lachen, Lachung and adjoining regions in North Sikkim are safe. These popular tourist destinations had become inaccessible due to severe weather conditions which had raised concerns about their safety.

Thousands of Tourists Stranded

According to estimates, over 3,000 tourists, inclusive of foreigners are stuck in various parts of Sikkim due to these flash floods. Rescue operations for them are being conducted on war footing and evacuation plans are being drawn out by the relevant authorities.

In conclusion, the sudden cloudburst and subsequent flash flooding in Sikkim have left a trail of destruction with many lives lost and thousands affected. The rescue teams comprising Army personnel and NDRF are working round-the-clock amidst challenging conditions to find those missing and provide relief to those affected. The situation is grim but efforts from all corners are bringing hope amidst these testing times. As we wait for more updates on this unfolding disaster, our thoughts go out to everyone impacted by this calamity.