On the night of October 3-4, 2023, a catastrophic glacial lake outburst struck South Lhonak Lake in North Sikkim, leading to a devastating flood that severely impacted the northeastern state of Sikkim, India. The consequences of this natural disaster have been tragic, with extensive damage to infrastructure, and properties, and the loss of human lives.
The glacial lake outburst event resulted in a dramatic increase in the water level of the Teesta River by approximately 50-60 feet, triggering calamitous floods downstream. As a result, numerous areas along the riverbanks experienced large-scale destruction and loss. According to estimates by the State Government, a total of 142 individuals remain missing, with 26 bodies recovered up to this point.
The exact assessment of the damage has been challenging due to inclement weather and persistent rainfall, hindering rescue and recovery efforts.
Impact on Indian Army and Infrastructure
The Indian Army, deployed in the affected area, has also suffered the consequences of the flood. Several army camps along the Teesta River bank were damaged or washed away. In one instance, a vehicle parking area at Burdang near Singtam was severely affected, submerging 23 soldiers and 39 vehicles during a temporary overnight transit halt. The site of the incident saw deposits of silt and mud measuring up to 30-40 feet high, burying most vehicles underneath.
Search and Rescue Operations
In response to this tragic event, a massive Search and Rescue operation was immediately initiated, involving the Indian Army, Border Roads Organization (BRO), National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), State Disaster Relief Teams, Para Military Forces, Police, Civil Administration, and the local populace of Sikkim and North Bengal.
“Despite the challenging conditions, the operation has made progress. On October 4th, one soldier was rescued by villagers from an area 18 kilometers downstream of Burdang and is now under medical care. To date, approximately 26 bodies have been recovered from various areas along the river in North Bengal, with four bodies handed over by Bangladesh Border Forces. Among the recovered bodies, eight have been identified as Indian Army soldiers”.
Continuing Efforts
Efforts are ongoing to locate the remaining 14 soldiers who are still missing. Heavy machinery, including dozers and plant equipment, has been deployed to dig up the Burdang incident site. Radars and Army Dogs have also been employed since October 6th to assist in locating missing personnel.
Roads and Infrastructure
The flood has rendered National Highway 10 (NH 10), the lifeline of Sikkim, unusable due to road surface damage and the destruction of many bridges across the Teesta River. Restoration work is in progress for the Rangpo – Singtam road stretch.
Alternate routes to Gangtok are available via East Sikkim, while routes to West and South Sikkim remain accessible. However, roads beyond Mangan in North Sikkim are currently cut off.
Relief Efforts and Stranded Tourists
Approximately 1,500 tourists are estimated to be stranded in the Lachung and Lachen valleys of North Sikkim. The Indian Army, in collaboration with local administration, has been providing assistance to stranded tourists and locals, offering food, medical aid, and satellite telephone connectivity.
“Efforts are underway to establish communication and infrastructure while coordinating relief operations to aid those affected by this devastating flood”.
While the hinterland of Sikkim has been severely affected, the operational situation along the Line of Actual Control in Sikkim remains stable. Indian Army formations responsible for border management continue to maintain a high state of readiness and operational logistics.
“The Search and Rescue operations, as well as the efforts to restore infrastructure, are ongoing, reflecting the dedication and coordinated response of the Indian Army, various agencies, and civil administration in the face of this natural disaster”.
