Sikkim flash flood: One of 23 missing soldiers rescued; search on for others

47 civilians also missing; 8 people die

A flood affected locality at Singtam, in Gangtok district | PTI A flood affected locality at Singtam, in Gangtok district | PTI

One of the 23 soldiers who had gone missing after a flash flood in north Sikkim has been rescued, the Army said on Wednesday.

“His condition is stable and he is under medical care,” Defence PRO Lt Colonel Rawat said in a statement.

The soldier was rescued from Danag village, 18 km from Bardang, and efforts are on to trace and rescue the remaining soldiers, it said.

"The search operations are being undertaken under conditions of incessant rains, and fast-flowing water in the Teesta River with the roads and bridges washed away at many places," the statement said.

The officer added that all other Army personnel posted in Sikkim and north Bengal were safe though they were unable to contact their family members due to disruptions of mobile communications.

Besides the 22 soldiers, 47 civilians have also gone missing after the flash flood triggered by a cloudburst over Lhonak Lake. Eight people have died in the mishap.

Officials said the flood started around 1.30 am was made worse by the release of water from Chungthang dam.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke to Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang on Wednesday to take stock of the situation in the state, and assured him of all possible support.

"Spoke to Sikkim CM Shri @PSTamangGolay and took stock of the situation in the wake of the unfortunate natural calamity in parts of the state. Assured all possible support in addressing the challenge. I pray for the safety and well-being of all those affected," Modi said on X.

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