A cloud burst in northeastern Sikkim state has resulted in a flash flood, leaving at least 23 Indian Army personnel missing. The incident occurred as a sudden cloud burst over Lhonak Lake in north Sikkim triggered a flash flood in the Teesta River in Lachen Valley.

Several army establishments in the valley were affected by the flood, and efforts are ongoing to ascertain the full extent of the damage, according to a statement from defense spokesperson Lt Col. Mahendra Rawat.

The statement also noted that the release of water from the Chungthang Dam caused a rapid increase in the water level downstream, reaching heights of 15-20 feet. As a result, Army vehicles parked near Singtam in Bardang were affected, with 23 personnel reported missing, and some vehicles submerged in the slush.

Search and rescue operations are currently underway to locate and assist those missing and affected by the flood.

Source: with agencies