In response to the flash flood in Singtam, Sikkim, Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang has assessed the situation. The flash flood occurred due to the sudden release of water from the Chungthang dam, causing the water level to rise significantly by 15-20 feet downstream.
The flash flood has affected Army vehicles parked near Singtam, with 23 jawans reported missing. Additionally, approximately 41 Army vehicles have been submerged under the slush. Search operations are currently underway to locate the missing personnel.
However, the Army is encountering operational challenges in the rescue efforts due to low internet connectivity in the area. Command-level officers are struggling to establish communication with the ground teams. Despite these difficulties, efforts are ongoing to rescue the missing individuals.
To aid in the rescue operations, four teams from the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) have arrived at the scene. One team is stationed in Singtam, with the others located in Kalimpong, Kurseong, and Jalpaiguri. They are actively assisting in the ongoing rescue efforts.