1. What Caused the Recent Floods in the Teesta River?
The recent floods in the Teesta River were caused by a cloudburst over Lhonak Lake in north Sikkim, which led to a flash flood in the Teesta River basin. This event resulted in at least eight deaths and 49 people stranded, highlighting the river's unpredictable nature.
2. How Many People Have Died in the Sikkim Floods?
At least 53 people, including seven soldiers, have died in the Sikkim flash floods. Additionally, 27 more dead bodies were found in the Teesta river bed in neighboring West Bengal over the last three days.
3. What is the Impact of the Teesta River on Local Communities?
The Teesta River has a significant impact on local communities, particularly in terms of agriculture. The fertile silt carried by the river makes it ideal for farming, attracting displaced farmers from West Bengal who settle near its banks to grow vegetables.
4. How Does the Teesta River Affect Local Infrastructure?
The Teesta River has caused significant damage to local infrastructure. A severe landslide in Sikkim destroyed the Teesta-V hydropower station, and the river's frequent flooding has led to the closure of roads and bridges, disrupting transportation and daily life.
5. What Efforts Are Being Made to Conserve the Teesta River?
Efforts are underway to conserve and manage the Teesta River. India and Bangladesh have agreed on a mega project to conserve and manage the river, with India sending a technical team to Bangladesh soon. Additionally, there are plans to desilt the river bed, which will cost around 600 crore, but this process is complex and requires expertise.
6. How Does the Teesta River Affect Local Wildlife?
The Teesta River has a significant impact on local wildlife. The dams built across the river have disrupted the spawning grounds and habits of fish species like the boroli, leading to a decline in aquatic life. This has also affected the birds that flock to Gajoldoba, with a 25-year low in both headcount and species observed this year.
7. What Future Challenges Does the Teesta River Face?
The Teesta River faces several future challenges. The river's frequent flooding and landslides pose a constant threat to local communities and infrastructure. Additionally, the lack of desilting efforts and inconsistent management plans make it difficult to mitigate the river's destructive power. Residents of two villages are even being permanently relocated to evade Teesta flooding and erosion.
