Sikkim Floods: A Wake-up Call to the Consequences of Climate Change
GANGTOK – As the relentless rains beat down on the northeastern state of Sikkim, Lhonak Lake, a glacial reservoir, could no longer contain its waters, causing massive flooding. The aftermath is devastating: at least 10 lives lost, 82 people missing, including 23 army personnel. This catastrophe is not just a tragic event but an indicator of the bigger climate challenges looming over the Himalayan region.
Unprecedented Rainfall
Over a span of two days, Sikkim was battered with 40.9mm of rainfall, which astonishingly surpasses its standard 8.6mm for the same duration, as per the records of the India Meteorological Department (IMD). A cloudburst over Lhonak Lake, situated about 150km north of Gangtok near the Chinese frontier, augmented the flooding’s magnitude, wreaking havoc in its wake.
The Shrinking Lake: A Satellite’s Perspective
Startling revelations from the Indian Space Research Organisation’s satellite imagery unveiled that Lhonak Lake, nestled at the base of a glacier close to Kangchenjunga, the world’s third-loftiest peak, reduced in size dramatically overnight. The contraction equates to nearly two-thirds, spanning an area comparable to 150 football pitches, or roughly 105 hectares.
Rescue Efforts: Challenges Abound
The ceaseless rains have posed immense challenges to search and rescue missions, particularly for the missing Indian army personnel. Defence officials have reported that Gangtok, Sikkim’s capital, has been rendered inaccessible due to the collapsing road networks.
Climate Change: A Growing Concern
Miriam Jackson, an expert cryosphere specialist at the International Centre for Integrated Mountain Development based in Nepal, emphasized the gravity of the situation. “The torrential rains in Sikkim, resulting in the glacial lake’s outburst and damage to infrastructure, are ominous signs of the catastrophic implications of climate change in the region,” she remarked.
Moving Forward
While rescue and relief operations continue amidst challenges, it’s crucial to understand and acknowledge the larger issue at play. The Sikkim floods serve as a pressing reminder of the urgency to address climate change, ensuring that communities in vulnerable regions are better prepared and resilient against future adversities.
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