Sikkim Government’s Strong Support for Teesta Flash Flood Victims

The Sikkim government, under the leadership of Chief Minister Shri Prem Singh Tamang, is providing strong support to the people affected by the Teesta flash flood that occurred on October 4th.

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The Glacial Lake Outburst Flood (GLOF) that occurred in South Lhonak Lake in North Sikkim during the night of October 3-4 caused a severe flood in Sikkim. This led to a significant increase in the water level of the Teesta River, rising approximately 50-60 feet, resulting in devastating floods downstream.

The consequences of the Teesta flash flood were severe, affecting both human settlements and the environment. Several lives were lost, and countless families were displaced from their homes. The floodwaters damaged roads, bridges, and other critical infrastructure, leading to isolated communities and hindering rescue and relief operations. At the site of the incident, there’s a substantial deposition of silt and mud, reaching heights of 30-40 feet. Many vehicles have been buried beneath this debris.

To rebuild the state and to help the Teesta flash flood affected people, Sikkim government has unveiled a comprehensive plan. As part of this initiative, they have announced the construction of 2,100 houses under the Punarvas Aavas Yojana. Additionally, a financial aid of Rs 5,000 per month will be provided for three months to those who were previously residing in rented accommodations.

Sikkim, Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang (Golay) announced a slew of initiatives taken by the state Government to aid the recovery and rehabilitation of individuals severely impacted by the natural disaster, during a press conference held at Samman Bhawan.

Highlighting the efforts undertaken by the state government to aid the recovery and rehabilitation of individuals severely impacted by the recent natural disaster that befell our state, a series of initiatives were announced during a press conference held at Samman Bhawan.

– To… pic.twitter.com/3YJtYWC6mP

— Prem Singh Tamang (Golay) (@PSTamangGolay) October 16, 2023

• Shelter for those affected by the calamity, a total of 2,100 houses will be built under the Punarwas Awas Yojana for the affected citizens whose homes have been fully or partially damaged, and who possess a Sikkim Subject Certificate, Certificate of Identification, or own land in their name or in the name of their father or grandfather. Registered voters in Sikkim will also be eligible to avail this scheme.
• Tenants who were residing in the aforementioned damaged houses will receive a monthly relief amount of Rs. 5,000/- for a period of three months. This assistance is initiated to support victims residing in relief camps during their rehabilitation process.
• Allocation of housing units at the Janta Housing Colony to those victims who hold a Sikkim Subject Certificate, Certificate of Identification, possess land in their name, their father’s, or grandfather’s name, or have a Voter Card registered in Sikkim. Notably, the first three years of residence in these housing units will be provided free of cost.
• Students who have been adversely affected by the calamity will receive financial aid, with each student being granted Rs. 10,000/-. These funds are intended to cover uniforms and stationery expenses, and the necessary textbooks will be supplied by the education department.
• District Collectors will oversee the establishment of camps aimed at reissuing important documents such as Voter Cards, Aadhar Cards, Land Parcha, Ration Cards, Birth Certificates, Certificates of Identification, Community Certificates, and Trade Licenses to those individuals who lost their documents during the flood.
• Subsequent to a comprehensive assessment, vehicle owners who have been impacted by the calamity will also receive essential relief and support.
•  Those who suffered losses in their businesses due to the calamity will be eligible for loans of up to Rs. 10 lakhs which will be provided by the government. The interest will be covered for the first 24 months and this support is intended to assist them in rebuilding and reestablishing their businesses.

Sikkim MP, Indra Hang Subba also shared the news on his X (formerly Twitter) account stating “Sikkim government led by HCM Shri P S Tamang stands with its people affected during 4th October Teesta flashflood.”

Sikkim government led by HCM Shri P S Tamang stands with its people affected during 4th October Teesta flashflood.

We shall overcome and rebuild our state.

Together, we can!@PSTamangGolay @arunupretiskm @bikashbasnetskm pic.twitter.com/UBD75euskv

— Indra Hang Subba (@IndraHangSubba1) October 18, 2023

The Sikkim government’s plan to recover and rebuild gives hope to the people. This plan isn’t just about fixing the damage from the Teesta flash flood but also about creating a strong and inclusive future for Sikkim. Through teamwork, determination, and with the government’s support, Sikkim is making good progress on its path to recovery, showing the strength and resilience of its people.