Sikkim flash floods: CM Prem Singh Tamang dismisses Shako Cho Lake burst rumors, says no basis for such claims

In the wake of alarming rumors surrounding a supposed Shako Cho Lake burst, Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang has responded, reassuring the public that there is no basis for such claims. Chief Minister Tamang visited the flood-affected Naga Village in North Sikkim, where he interacted with the affected residents to understand their concerns.

Addressing the ongoing concerns, Chief Minister Tamang stated, "As of now, there is no news of a Shako Cho Lake burst, and this information appears to be untrue. The department has not provided any clarification regarding the burst. Therefore, we can only consider it as true when an official statement is released by the department. False information is being circulated, causing unnecessary fear among people."

Meanwhile , flash flood struck the region of Lachen and Lachung in the Mangan district of Sikkim, leaving more than 3,000 tourists stranded. The calamity severed all road communications, leaving tourists and locals isolated but safe on October 6.

The Indian Air Force made multiple valiant attempts to execute rescue and relief operations using Mi-17 helicopters. However, adverse weather conditions, including low-lying cloud cover and poor visibility in the Lachen and Lachung valleys, made it impossible for flights to depart from Bagdogra and Chaten. Furthermore, the roads leading to Lachen and Lachung have sustained significant damage.

In response to the crisis, authorities are working to establish an alternative route via Dzongu to Chungthang, allowing rescue teams to access the affected areas.

Teesta Urja has generously provided a helicopter to assist in the rescue of stranded tourists and to transport essential supplies to the Chungthang area. Meanwhile, an ITBP team has reached the affected region, currently engaged in providing relief and conducting rescue operations in Chungthang.

The India Meteorological Department has issued a weather forecast for the Mangan district, indicating the likelihood of light to moderate rain at most places in the district over the next five days.