ISRO Satellite Images Reveal Lhonak Lake Burst Triggering Tragic Floods in Sikkim, 14 Lives Lost

In a tragic turn of events, the National Remote Sensing Centre, part of the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), unveiled satellite images depicting the transformation of South Lhonak Lake's shape in Sikkim. These images shed light on the aftermath of flash floods that wreaked havoc in this Himalayan state.

Source: https://www.patrika.com/

In a tragic turn of events, the National Remote Sensing Centre, part of the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), unveiled satellite images depicting the transformation of South Lhonak Lake's shape in Sikkim. These images shed light on the aftermath of flash floods that wreaked havoc in this Himalayan state.

The satellite-based study conducted by ISRO involved comparing temporal satellite images taken before and after the incident. Shockingly, the images revealed that the lake had burst, causing approximately 105 hectares of land to be submerged. This catastrophic event is believed to have triggered flash floods downstream.

ISRO issued a statement on Wednesday, expressing their commitment to monitoring the situation using satellite data. Meanwhile, the devastating consequences of the flash floods have left 14 people dead, with 120 individuals, including 22 army personnel, reported missing. Fortunately, around 200 people, including an army soldier, have been rescued thus far.

In response to this crisis, the Indian Army has initiated three helplines to assist the families of the missing individuals in Sikkim, including its own soldiers. The helpline numbers are as follows:

• Army Helpline for North Sikkim: 8750887741
• Army Helpline for East Sikkim: 8756991895
• Army Helpline for missing soldiers: 7588302011

Following the disaster, Chief Minister PS Tamang conducted an assessment of the damage caused by the flash flood in the Teesta River basin in Singtam. He convened a meeting with senior officials at the Singtam Nagar Panchayat office, urging them to remain vigilant. CM Tamang also utilized 'X' (formerly known as Twitter) to update the public on the situation and the mobilization of emergency services.

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Additionally, relief and rescue efforts are currently underway in Sikkim. The Chief Secretary of Sikkim, participating in a video conference, briefed a committee on the state's latest situation and the government's initiatives in providing relief and conducting rescue operations. Union Home Secretary Ajay Bhalla assured the Committee that the Central Government is overseeing the situation 24/7 at the highest level.