Sikkim Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang on Friday, October 6, went on an extensive tour of flood-hit areas in the eastern part of the state to take stock of relief and restoration work. He assured the victims that rescue operations were underway in full swing and also directed the district administration to extend all help for the rehabilitation of the displaced families.

While on his tour, Tamang also assured the evacuees of free medical treatment and other logistical support. His announcement also included an ex-gratia compensation of ₹4 lakh to the family of those who died and an immediate relief of ₹2,000 each to all those who are being sheltered in relief camps.

While speaking about the havoc that extreme weather condition caused in the state, he said that the entire Teesta Dam has been washed out. "Teesta 3 Dam was of sub-standard quality," he added.

He also blamed the erstwhile governments for construction. "Whatever construction has happened has happened during earlier governments' tenures. We haven’t done any of the new construction."

A glacial lake outburst flood (GLOF) at Lhonak lake in North Sikkim in the early hours of Wednesday, October 4, led to a massive surge in the Teesta, causing a flash flood in river's basin. GLOFs occur when glacier-fed lakes suddenly burst open due to accumulation of excessive water.

On October 6, the third day after the flood, the death toll has risen to 22, including seven Army men. Of the 22 deceased, 15 have been identified as men, six as women. A total of 103 people, including the 15 jawans, are still missing.

Meanwhile, the Centre also extended help to the Northeastern state with Union Home Minister Amit Shah approving the release of ₹44.8 crore as an advance amount from the central share of the State Disaster Response Fund (SDRF). The Centre has assured the Sikkim government of all possible help.

Also Read:Sikkim flash flood: Military firearms, explosives carried away in Teesta; Army asks people to be alert

(Edited by : Shoma Bhattacharjee)

First Published:Oct 6, 2023 6:18 PM IST