In a recent incident in Sikkim, 23 Army personnel have been reported missing near Bardang, close to Singtam, following a flash flood in the Teesta River within the Lachen valley. The flash flood was triggered by a sudden cloud burst over Lhonak Lake in North Sikkim. A statement by the Army's Eastern Command has said search and rescue operations are currently underway.
The statement also stated, "A flash flood occurred in the Teesta River in Lachen Valley due to a sudden cloud burst over Lhonak Lake in North Sikkim. Some army establishments in the valley have been impacted, and efforts are ongoing to ascertain the full extent of the situation."
The release of water from the Chungthang dam resulted in a rapid increase in water levels downstream, reaching heights of up to 15-20 feet. As a consequence, Army vehicles stationed in Bardang near Singtam have been affected, with 23 personnel reported missing, and some vehicles submerged under the slush.
The Central Water Commission provided further information, stating, "A Lake outburst in portions of Lhonak Lake in North Sikkim caused a rise in water levels with high velocities, reaching approximately 15m/sec. This exceeded the danger level at CWC Melli FF site, measuring 227m, by about 3 meters at 6:00 am."
The Commission also mentioned, "Simultaneous Flood Forecasts have been made for both India and Bangladesh at 6:00 am for 2:00 pm. The river Teesta is currently flowing below the Warning Level at CWC Domohani FF Station, with a water level of 84.83m at 6:00 am and is expected to cross its Warning Level within the next 6 hours."