Northeast Desk, 7th October: In response to alarming rumors surrounding a potential Shako Cho Lake burst, Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang has reassured the public that there is no credible basis for such claims. Chief Minister Tamang personally visited the flood-affected Naga Village in North Sikkim to interact with affected residents and address their concerns.
Clarifying the situation, Chief Minister Tamang stated, “At present, there is no official confirmation of a Shako Cho Lake burst, and the information seems to be unfounded. Until an official statement is released by the concerned department, we must consider this information as unverified. Spreading false information is causing unnecessary panic among the public.”
Meanwhile, flash floods have disrupted the region of Lachen and Lachung in the Mangan district of Sikkim, leaving over 3,000 tourists stranded. The calamity has severed all road connections, isolating both tourists and local residents. However, they are safe as of October 6.
Despite challenging weather conditions, including low-lying clouds and poor visibility, the Indian Air Force attempted rescue and relief operations using Mi-17 helicopters. These efforts were hindered by adverse weather, making it impossible for flights to depart from Bagdogra and Chaten. Additionally, the roads leading to Lachen and Lachung sustained significant damage.
Authorities are diligently working to establish an alternative route through Dzongu to Chungthang, allowing rescue teams to access the affected areas. Teesta Urja has provided a helicopter for the rescue of stranded tourists and the transportation of essential supplies to the Chungthang area. An ITBP team has reached the affected region and is actively engaged in providing relief and conducting rescue operations in Chungthang.
The India Meteorological Department has issued a weather forecast for the Mangan district, predicting light to moderate rainfall in most places over the next five days.