Sikkim Floods Impact NHPC Power Projects

5 Oct 2023 , 01:26 PM

NHPC reported that its power projects in the Teesta Basin of flood-hit Sikkim have been affected by flash floods. The Teesta-V (510 MW) and Teesta-VI HE (500 MW) projects have been impacted, with all units shut down due to the emergency.

Detailed assessment of losses and damages will be conducted once the water level recedes, with assets and loss of profit fully insured. Cloudbursts and flash floods in Sikkim have resulted in 14 casualties, with over 2,000 people rescued and 26 relief camps set up. 102 individuals, including 22 Army soldiers, are reported missing, although one missing soldier was later rescued.

The floods destroyed 11 bridges, damaged pipelines, and affected over 270 houses in four districts. The flooding was exacerbated by the washout of parts of a dam along the Teesta River in the Lachen Valley.

Several towns in the Teesta basin were flooded, and schools in four districts were closed until Sunday. The government, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s office, pledged support for state authorities in the aftermath of the flooding.

The heavy monsoon rains in the mountainous Himalayan region, where Sikkim is situated, have contributed to the flooding, driven by cloudbursts that can cause intense flooding and landslides.

For feedback and suggestions, write to us at [e-mail]