Flash Flood Devastates Sikkim: Relief Efforts Underway as Schools Remain Closed
Sikkim, a state in northeastern India, has been struck by a devastating flash flood triggered by a cloudburst in the Teesta river basin. The calamity has wreaked havoc in several districts, resulting in extensive damage to infrastructure, homes, and bridges. As the affected communities grapple with the aftermath of this natural disaster, relief camps have been set up to provide assistance and support to those in need.
In response to the flash flood, the state education department has taken the decision to close all government, private schools, colleges, and universities in Sikkim until October 15. This closure is a precautionary measure due to the continued inclement weather conditions. Initially, schools were set to reopen on October 8, but a revised circular has extended the closure period to ensure the safety of students and staff.
Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang personally visited Singtam, one of the worst affected areas, to assess the situation and provide assurance to the affected communities. He expressed gratitude towards the dedicated teams working tirelessly to address immediate concerns and challenges caused by the calamity. Furthermore, the chief minister has reached out to the prime minister, seeking necessary support and intervention for areas in urgent need.
The flash flood has left its mark on the region, causing significant destruction. In total, 11 bridges have been destroyed, with eight of them washed away in the Mangan district alone. Namchi and Gangtok have also suffered damage to their infrastructure, with two bridges destroyed in Namchi and one in Gangtok. Additionally, water pipelines, sewage lines, and 277 houses, ranging from kuchcha (temporary) to concrete structures, have been destroyed in the four affected districts.
Efforts are underway to provide relief and essential supplies to the affected communities. In North Sikkim, helicopters have transported vital items like rice, pulse, salt, and milk to the remote village of Lachen, ensuring that locals have access to much-needed provisions. The State Disaster Management Authority has advised people to stay away from the Teesta river as water levels continue to rise due to incessant rains in the upper reaches.
Given the widespread impact of the flash flood, Sikkim’s Chief Secretary has convened meetings with various associations and stakeholders to assess the availability of essential commodities, including fuel, and ensure their uninterrupted supply. The National Highways & Infrastructure Development Corporation Limited (NHIDCL) has been directed to reopen closed routes for small and heavy vehicles at the earliest convenience. The state government has also taken steps to prevent inflated prices and hoarding of essential commodities, urging associations to maintain fair pricing and discourage stockpiling.
In the face of adversity, the people of Sikkim are banding together to support one another and rebuild their communities. The flash flood has had a profound impact on thousands of individuals, and concerted efforts are being made to provide relief and aid in the midst of this tragedy. As Sikkim navigates the path to recovery, solidarity and cooperation remain paramount in overcoming this challenging situation.
