October 6 Updated: Officials reported on Friday that flash floods have claimed the lives of at least 40 people in India’s northeast. In response to this dire situation, army teams are strategizing helicopter rescue operations to reach the thousands of individuals currently stranded by the inundation.
October 5: At least 10 people have died and 82 are missing, including 22 army men, after a massive flash flood triggered by a cloudburst wreaked havoc in north Sikkim on Saturday, officials said.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke to Sikkim Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang over the phone and assured him of all possible assistance from the Centre.
“Spoke to Sikkim CM Shri @PSTamangGolay and took stock of the situation in the wake of the unfortunate natural calamity in parts of the state. Assured all possible support in addressing the challenge. I pray for the safety and well-being of all those affected,” Modi said on X.
“Dear Hon’ble PM Shri @narendramodi Ji, We express our heartfelt gratitude for your unwavering support to Sikkim during these challenging times. Your swift response and invaluable assistance are deeply appreciated. Together, we will embark on the journey of rebuilding and recovery. Thank you for standing with us.” Tamang wrote on X
“We were traveling to Gangtok from Siliguri when our car was forced to halt in the Swetjhora area. The NH-10 had caved in as incessant rains had eroded the rock and soil below the road. Fortunately, all cars were moving slowly because of the rains, otherwise, the cave-in could have actually swallowed a vehicle,” Dolma Bhutia, a college student going back home to Sikkim, told PTI.
The flash flood has caused extensive damage to roads and bridges in the area, disrupting communication and transportation.
Here are some additional details about the flash flood in Sikkim:
- The flash flood occurred in the Lachen area of North Sikkim, which is about 130 km from the state capital Gangtok.
- The flood was triggered by a cloudburst, which is a sudden and intense downpour of rain.
- At least 10 people were killed in the flash flood, and 82 people, including 22 army men, were missing.
Safety guidelines:
- Do not attempt to cross flooded roads or bridges.
- If you are caught in a flood, try to find a high point and stay there until the floodwaters subside.
- Be aware of the dangers of landslides and mudflows, which can occur after a flood.
- If you are evacuated from your home, follow the instructions of the authorities.
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