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Teesta Valley Disaster and Recommendations for Mitigation
Context
In October 2023, a glacial lake outburst flood (GLOF) occurred in the Teesta Valley, affecting parts of Sikkim and West Bengal. This was triggered by the bursting of South Lhonak Lake in Sikkim, which had expanded significantly over the years. This flood not only caused immediate damage but also left long-term risks, as the valley remains vulnerable to future floods.
About the disaster
- The disaster was occurred due to a glacier lake outburst flood (GLOF), from South Lhonak glacial lake that inundated the Teesta River.
- The South Lhonaklake is among the largest high-altitude glacier lakes in Sikkim and has been the poster child of potential GLOF disasters in the Himalayas.
- It resulted in widespread devastation across Sikkim, West Bengal, and Bangladesh.
- Location:
- Located approximately 60 kilometres downstream of the lake, in Chungthang town of Mangan district, was the 1,200 MW Teesta III dam, the biggest hydropower project in Sikkim.
- Chungthang is a small town on the confluence of the Lachen chu (river) and Lachung chu, which form the Teesta.
- It is a gateway to tourist destinations further north, and an important forward base of the Indian Army.
- The Teesta III dam, which started functioning in 2017, was developed by Teesta Urja Limited; the majority share is now owned by the Government of Sikkim.
- The Need for Urgent Action:There are only six months left before the 2025 monsoon, and the authorities must act now to prevent further damage.
- Joint Approach: The two states, Sikkim and West Bengal, need to work together on disaster management, treating the Teesta Valley as a shared problem. A joint committee could help coordinate efforts between the states, instead of working in isolation.
- Task Force for Action Plan: A task force, including experts in geo-hydrology, environmental science, engineering, and sociology, should be formed to develop a comprehensive plan to restore and fortify the region. This plan should address the ecological, infrastructure, and community welfare
- Restoring Infrastructure:
- Repairing Roads and Bridges: Many roads and bridges have been damaged or destroyed. These must be repaired to restore connectivity and enable disaster relief efforts.
- Strengthening Evacuation Centres: Existing evacuation centres should be reinforced and equipped with solar backup power to remain functional during future emergencies.
- Protection from Floods:Re-channeling the Teesta River; Protecting Low-lying Areas
- Non-Structural Measures:Early Warning Systems; Backup Communication Systems; Risk Management and Awareness Campaigns; Afforestation and Ecosystem Restoration
Fact Box: Glacier lake outburst flood
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