23 Indian Army personnel missing in flash flood

By Anadolu Staff

ANKARA (AA) - At least 23 Indian Army personnel are missing after a cloud burst triggered a flash flood in northeastern Sikkim state, according to an official statement.

"Due to a sudden cloud burst over Lhonak Lake in north Sikkim, a flash flood occurred in the Teesta River in Lachen Valley. Some army establishments along the valley have been affected and efforts are on to confirm details," defense spokesperson Lt Col. Mahendra Rawat said early Wednesday.

The statement said the release of water from the Chungthang Dam "led to a sudden increase in the water level up to 15-20 feet high downstream."

"This has led to Army vehicles parked at Bardang near Singtam getting affected. Twenty-three personnel have been reported missing and some vehicles are reported submerged under the slush," the statement said, adding that search operations are underway.