Flash flood in Sikkim; 23 army personnel missing

Gangtok: A sudden cloud burst over Lhonak Lake in North Sikkim has resulted in a flash flood in the Teesta River in Lachen valley, which was compounded by the release of water from a dam, leading to 23 army personnel being washed away, camps and vehicles being submerged, officials said.

The floods started around 1.30 am, they said.

VIDEO | 23 Indian Army personnel missing in Sikkim following flash floods.

(Source: Third Party)

STORY | Flash flood in Sikkim; 23 army personnel missing

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Defence officials said establishments along the valley have been affected and efforts are on to confirm details.

The release of water from the Chungthang dam led to a sudden increase in water levels up to 15-20 feet high downstream.

This has led to army vehicles parked at Bardang near Singtam getting affected, the officials said.

Twenty-three army personnel have been reported missing and 41 vehicles submerged under the slush.

Search operations are underway, they said.