Massive Teesta Valley Floods: What Happened and What Needs to Be Done Now
The Darjeeling Himalaya Initiative (DHI) recently submitted a comprehensive report to the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) and the State Disaster Management Authorities (SDMAs) of West Bengal and Sikkim regarding the Glacial Lake Outburst Flood (GLOF) that ravaged the Teesta Valley in October 2023. This report, based on observations and interactions with affected individuals, was created in collaboration with SaveTheHills and contains vital recommendations to mitigate future disasters.
Background of the Disaster
In the early hours of October 4, 2023, a catastrophic GLOF event occurred from the South Lhonak Glacier. This disaster, compounded by a massive dam breach at Chungthang, unleashed devastating floods across the Teesta Valley, resulting in significant loss of life ...
