Gangtok: Tragedy has struck in Sikkim as the flash floods have claimed the lives of at least 53 individuals, which includes the unfortunate loss of seven soldiers. Additionally, a somber discovery of 27 more deceased persons has been made along the Teesta river bed in the neighboring state of West Bengal, all within the past three days. Notably, seven of these recovered bodies have been successfully identified.
The impact of this disaster has left over 140 individuals unaccounted for, while thousands have been forcibly displaced from their homes. The Sikkim government reports severe damage to 1,173 houses and the successful rescue of 2,413 people from the affected areas.
Furthermore, the flooding has taken a toll on infrastructure, submerging or washing out all bridges downstream leading to the Teesta-V hydropower station. This has caused a significant disruption in communication to North Sikkim.
In response to this crisis, Sikkim’s Chief Minister, Prem Singh Tamang, has taken charge of coordinating rescue, relief, and restoration efforts. Immediate priorities include reestablishing road connectivity up to Chungthang and the construction of the road from Naga to Toong, contingent on the availability of suitable land.
The government has also announced compensation of ₹4 lakh for the families of those who tragically lost their lives in this devastating event. Sikkim authorities are working tirelessly to restore essential road connections and provide aid to those affected while dealing with the extensive aftermath of the flash floods. Various departments are working in close coordination to assess road conditions, manage relief and rehabilitation, and continue rescue operations.