Sikkim flash floods: Shocked and saddened, ready with all support and relief, says CM Tamang

Amid the devastating situation in Sikkim, particularly north and south Sikkim, due to cloud burst over Lhonak Lake in North Sikkim resulting in flash flood in the Teesta River in Lachen valley early Wednesday morning, Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang held an emergency meeting and directed emergency services to reach the affected areas immediately.

Early this morning, the Chief Minister visited the flood-hit site at Singtam, took stock of the situation, and also interacted with the locals.

He also urged citizens to remain vigilant and refrain from unnecessary travel.

So far three people have died in Singtam, at least 4 people are missing. Houses, property, livestock and several roads and bridges have been washed away. Portions of National Highway 10 at Melli has been washed away. At least 23 Army personnel at Lachen Valley are missing.
Road connectivity to North Sikkim bordering China is snapped. The extent of damage in North Sikkim is still not known.

In a post on his Facebook page the CM wrote:

“Dear and Respected people of Sikkim,

I am deeply shocked and saddened by the recent and unexpected incident that occurred due to the sudden surge of the Teesta River caused by the cloud burst at its source in North Sikkim. This natural calamity, driven by the uncontrollable forces of nature, has left many of our fellow citizens in distress and uncertainty.

In these challenging times, I want to extend my heartfelt support to all the victims and their families affected by this unfortunate event. Our thoughts and prayers are with all during these difficult hours.

I want to assure you that the government is fully committed to providing all necessary assistance and relief to those in need. We understand the magnitude of the situation and are mobilizing all available resources to ensure the safety and well-being of our citizens. Our dedicated teams are working day and night to address the immediate concerns and challenges posed by this calamity.

I urge the administration, local authorities, all organizations, and individuals to join hands in a spirit of solidarity and cooperation. Together, we can make a significant difference in providing relief to those affected and rebuilding our communities. Let us stand united and support one another during this time of ordeals.

This morning, I visited and took stock of the affected locality, interacted with the people, and held a meeting with the administration and the locals I have directed them to act upon the situation with full dedication, leaving no stone unturned to lend a hand to the needy people.

The indomitable spirit of our people has always shone brightest in times of pandemic and adversity, sharing their utmost support with generosity and having a philanthropic nature at times of such distress.
Once again, my thoughts and prayers are with you all. Please do not hesitate to reach out to the government helplines and local authorities for assistance and guidance.

Stay safe, stay strong, and remember, we are always here for you all.”

Taking to X, CM Tamang wrote, “We are all aware of the recent natural calamity that has struck our state. Emergency services have been mobilized to the affected areas, and I personally visited Singtam to assess the damages and engage with the local community.

I humbly urge all our citizens to remain vigilant and refrain from unnecessary travel during this critical time. It is essential that we maintain composure and hope for a swift return to normalcy in our region.”

Meanwhile, the Sikkim State Disaster Management Authority has advised all residents to avoid travelling along the River Basin, and to evacuate to higher ground.

Mangan SP Sonam Detchu informed that all police stations in low lying areas have been put on alert, and residents living along the banks of the Teesta River have been urgently advised to evacuate to higher ground for their safety.

Also Read: Flash Floods in Sikkim: 23 Army Personnel missing; search ops underway