Incessant heavy rainfall has caused the Teesta River in Sikkim to surge, prompting the Disaster Management Authority to issue a precautionary warning.
Authorities, including Block Development Officers (BDOs), Municipal Executive Officers (MEOs), and Station House Officers (SHOs), have been put on high alert to monitor the rising water levels closely.
Under the directive of Deputy Commissioner (DC) of Namchi, Annapurna Alley a thorough inspection was conducted in Melli to assess the impact of the rising Teesta River.
Residents in low-lying areas expressed their concerns and called for protective measures to ensure their safety.
Officials have instructed the evacuation of those living near the Teesta basin and downstream low-lying areas to prevent potential incidents.
Despite the warning issued last night, local reports indicated that the Teesta River was flowing at a normal volume by this morning.
However, the incident highlights ongoing concerns about Glacial Lake Outburst Floods (GLOFs) in the region.
In a related incident, the Mantam Bridge, which connects Upper Dzongu Tingvong Busty, was swept away due to the rising water level of the Kanaka River, according to reports from Sangkalang OP.
It should be noted that last October, heavy rainfall caused a catastrophic Glacial Lake Outburst Flood (GLOF) at South Lhonak Lake in North Sikkim.
The GLOF released a massive volume of water downstream along the Teesta River Basin, resulting in the deaths of at least 40 people and 76 missing.
The tragedy impacted at least a hundred villages across four districts. Around 25 army vehicles, parts of ATTC College, and several army personnel were reportedly washed away in the disaster.