The search and rescue operations are in full swing, but the inclement weather has posed challenges for the teams on the ground. The National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) team couldn't land in Chungthang, one of the severely affected areas, due to adverse weather conditions.

The West Bengal government confirmed the identification of four bodies as 'jawans,' highlighting the severity of the situation. Chief Secretary VB Pathak revealed that more than 3,000 individuals, including tourists, bikers, foreigners, and hundreds of drivers, are stranded in Lachen and Lachung.

As of Thursday morning, the death toll has risen to 14, with 102 people still missing. The situation remains dire, and concerns continue to mount for the safety of over 3,000 tourists who may be stranded in various parts of the state.

A sudden surge in the flow of the Teesta River in Sikkim, triggered by a combination of excess rainfall and a Glacial Lake Outburst Flood (GLOF), resulted in the destruction of bridges, roads, and infrastructure on October 4.

The Sikkim government has declared the flash flood a disaster under the Disaster Management Act. The Army rescued one of the missing soldiers, bringing hope amidst the crisis, but extensive damage to infrastructure, including 14 collapsed bridges, poses further challenges.

It is reportedly said that the flash floods have left at least 30 people missing, including 23 army personnel. This tragic incident was triggered by a sudden cloudburst over Lhonak Lake in North Sikkim, resulting in a rapid surge in water levels in the Teesta River.

The flash flood has also inflicted substantial damage on several Army installations along the Lachen valley. Authorities are working tirelessly to assess the full extent of the damage.