Authorities in the flood-stricken state of Sikkim have officially confirmed that the flash floods have resulted in a total of 77 fatalities. Anilraj Rai, the state's relief commissioner, disclosed that 29 bodies have been recovered from various parts of Sikkim thus far, and the ongoing rescue efforts continue to unfold.
The flash floods were triggered by the burst of a high-altitude glacial lake on October 3, leading to this devastating situation. While water levels along the Teesta River have gradually returned to normalcy after four days, the extensive damage to roads, bridges, and communication networks throughout much of Sikkim remains a pressing concern. Many individuals are still trapped due to the destruction.
Sikkim's disaster control room has reported that over 2,500 flood-stranded individuals have been successfully rescued thus far. Approximately 3,000 individuals in relief camps in the northern region of the state are awaiting their return to safety. Unfortunately, airlift rescues have been delayed due to adverse weather conditions.
In a noteworthy development, a total of 56 civilians, including 52 men and 4 women, were successfully rescued by the Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP) rescue team using a ropeway in Chungthang, North Sikkim, on Sunday.
Meanwhile, in the neighboring state of West Bengal, Jalpaiguri district police have reported the discovery of 48 additional bodies. Official records indicate that over 100 people remain unaccounted for.
Union Minister of State for Home Affairs (MoS), Ajay Kumar Mishra, held a meeting with Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang in Gangtok on Sunday to address the flash floods. During a media interaction after the meeting, CM Tamang emphasized the collaborative efforts of the state and central governments to restore normalcy in the flood-affected state. He thanked the Government of India for promptly providing funds to the Sikkim government and highlighted ongoing efforts to restore power supply and work with various departments, including the Border Roads Organisation (BRO).
MoS Ajay Kumar Mishra reiterated the Centre's support to Sikkim and acknowledged the significant damage sustained by roads and infrastructure in the state. Mishra also mentioned that the Centre has formed an inter-ministerial team, comprising representatives from multiple ministries, to assess the situation, evaluate damage, and provide necessary assistance. This team will visit the state to evaluate the ground conditions and coordinate relief efforts.
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