A calamitous cloud burst at Lhonak Lake in north Sikkim causes flash floods in the Teesta river

GANGTOK: The Serene landscape of Sikkim turned tragic as a cloud burst at Lhonak Lake in north Sikkim led to catastrophic flash floods in the Teesta river, resulting in the loss of 14 lives and leaving 102 individuals, including 23 army personnel, missing. The Sikkim State Disaster Management Authority (SSDMA) confirmed these distressing numbers on Thursday, painting a somber picture of the ongoing calamity.

In the wake of the disaster that struck on Wednesday, a total of 2,011 people have been successfully rescued, providing a glimmer of hope amidst the tragedy. However, a staggering 22,034 people have been affected by the calamitous floods and landslides, necessitating urgent relief and rehabilitation efforts.

To address the urgent need for shelter and assistance, the state government swiftly established 26 relief camps across the four affected districts. Presently, 1,025 individuals have sought refuge in eight relief camps within the Gangtok district, and the count of people accommodated in the remaining 18 relief camps is yet to be determined.

Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang visited Singtam, one of the areas worst hit by the disaster, to assess the situation and extend support to the affected populace. He appealed to the citizens to remain vigilant and seek shelter in secure locations, assuring them that the government is actively coordinating all necessary arrangements for their rehabilitation.