Gangtok: Tragedy struck as at least 19 individuals, including four soldiers, lost their lives, and more than 100 people remain unaccounted for in the devastating flash floods that hit Sikkim. Rescue efforts by the Indian Army and NDRF teams persist, despite facing challenging conditions of muddy terrain and swift currents along the Teesta River basin and downstream into northern Bengal for the second consecutive day.
In a parallel development, the West Bengal government, based in Kolkata, reported on Thursday that they have recovered 18 bodies. Among these, four jawans and two civilians have been identified, according to a statement by the state government. However, it remains unclear whether these soldiers are part of the 22 military personnel listed as missing or if their deaths are unrelated.
Additionally, 26 injured individuals are currently receiving treatment in various hospitals within Sikkim.
State Chief Secretary Vijay Bhushan Pathak provided an update regarding the number of stranded individuals, revealing that approximately 3,000 people are isolated in Lachen and Lachung. He stated, “Around 700-800 drivers are stuck there. 3,150 people who have gone there on motorcycles are also stuck… we will evacuate all with the assistance of Army and Air Force helicopters.” These stranded individuals could also communicate with their families via voice-over-internet calls facilitated by the Army.
Thus far, 2,011 people have been successfully rescued, while 3,000 tourists, including foreigners, remain trapped in the state amidst this disaster. According to a bulletin, the Sikkim State Disaster Management Authority (SSDMA) reported that nearly 22,034 people have been affected by the calamity. The situation remains critical, with ongoing efforts to locate and assist those affected by this devastating flood.