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The Teesta Valley GLOF Disaster of October
2023: Impacts and Urgent Mitigation Needs Ahead of the 2025 Monsoons.
The Glacial Lake Outburst Flood (GLOF) and
the subsequent hydro-power dam breach in the Teesta Valley in October 2023
brought widespread devastation, leading to tragic loss of life, severe damage
to livelihoods and assets as well
unaccounted ecological devastation across Sikkim and West Bengal.
The disaster caused significant destruction to the National
Hydroelectric Power Corporation’s (NHPC) infrastructure, agricultural land,
forests, riverine ecosystems, transportation routes, and even critical military
installations (Much of the devastation caused by the GLOF is documented in
SaveTheHills’ blog http://savethehills.blogspot.com) Yet, despite the scale of
the disaster, the response from state and central authorities have been
inadequate, especially long term rehabilitation and restoration interventions
at the relief, infrastructure and ecological level.
To further elucidate, we cite the case of fifty six families in the Teesta
Valley (Kalimpong district) who were displaced
by the floods in Oct2023 and still continue to reside in relief centres. For
these people who depended on the river for their survival, displacement has
worsened their economic stability, and every day existence becomes a struggle
for survival. Prolonged uncertainty worsens their mental distress, highlighting
the urgent need for targeted interventions to restore their houses and
livelihoods.
NH10, the lifeline of Kalimpong and Sikkim remained perilously unstable for
much of the monsoons season and diversion of traffic from Sikkim via alternate
routes added avoidable burden on transport services, infrastructure as well as
the communities along the route.These vulnerabilities were exposed again almost
throughout 2024 monsoon season and has severely reduced the tourist traffic to
the region impacting the economy of the
Sikkim and Darjeeling Himalaya.
With only six months remaining before the 2025 monsoon,
there is an urgent need to implement both structural and non-structural
mitigation measures throughout the Teesta Valley. Effective action now can
significantly reduce the impact of future floods, as such the implementation of
these measures both in Sikkim and West Bengal in the valley is a vital necessity.
Central assistance will be imperative simply because the scale and complexity
of the problem cannot be tackled at the state level.
The important issues at hand are listed below:
The Case for a Joint Sikkim-West Bengal Committee on Teesta Valley Flood Management
The October 2023 GLOF was one of the most severe glacial
floods in the history of the Himalaya, affecting both Sikkim and West Bengal
and needs to be responded to at a landscape level that is inclusive of both
states. Each monsoon season, the Teesta River poses serious threats to both
states, making collaborative management of the river and its surrounding
regions essential.
A joint committee from both the states could address common issues and
implement coordinated disaster management strategies that benefit both states.
Formation of an Expert Task Force
A dedicated task force of experts, drawn from geo-hydrology, environmental science, engineering, and sociology, should be formed to tackle the many challenges brought about by the GLOF. This task force must develop a comprehensive action plan that includes technical, financial, and social solutions for restoring and fortifying the region.
Structural Mitigation Measures
Construction of Embankments, Protection Walls, and Barriers
Embankments and barriers are urgently needed in low-lying,
high-risk areas to prevent river overflow into settlements. Populated areas in
the valley which are particularly vulnerable to flooding such as those below the Teesta bridge along the
Darjeeling-Kalimpong road, must be identified and remedial engineering
solutions applied.
Channeling the River Flow
The natural flow of the Teesta River was disrupted by debris buildup from the GLOF, leading to riverbank overflow. The river must be re-channelized to prevent further damage to urban areas and infrastructure. Experts in fluvial geo-morphology and hydrological engineering can assist in deepening, widening, and redirecting the river to safer channels. NHPC’s technical expertise can be instrumental in this effort.
Road Engineering and Restoration
NH10, the key highway linking Siliguri and Gangtok, suffered extensive damage during the GLOF, resulting in economic losses and supply chain disruptions. Immediate restoration of this critical artery must be prioritized, along with repairs to alternative routes that have also deteriorated due to increased traffic and monsoonal impacts.
Bridge Repair and Reconstruction
The destruction of bridges in Sikkim and West Bengal has cut off many communities, hindering both economic activity and disaster relief efforts. Repair and reinforcement of these vital structures must be completed before the next monsoon season.
Reinforcement of Evacuation Centers and Relief Camps
Many evacuation centers and relief camps need urgent repairs and enhancements, such as backup solar power, to ensure they remain operational in the event of future emergencies.
Non-Structural Mitigation Measures
Early Warning Systems (EWS) and Communication Networks
Installing automated flood early warning systems (FLEWS) that deliver real-time alerts through sirens and mobile networks is crucial. Backup communication methods, such as ham radios and walkie-talkies operated by trained personnel, should also be implemented to ensure effective communication during emergencies.
Land-Use Planning and Zoning
Certain low-lying areas will remain high-risk zones even with structural protections in place. These areas should be designated for potential evacuation and resettlement of at-risk communities. Adequate compensation as decided by the expert group should be provided to affected victims and necessary support given to those relocating.
Public Awareness and Community-Based Disaster Risk Management (CBDRM)
Community preparedness is essential to build capacities and resilience during disasters. Awareness campaigns should educate residents on flood preparedness, evacuation procedures, and available insurance schemes. Additionally, evacuation drills must be regularly conducted to ensure communities can respond swiftly during emergencies.
Post-Disaster Financial Recovery Support
To aid in economic recovery, education on flood insurance and financial aid should be provided to residents and businesses, ensuring they have the tools to rebuild after a disaster.
Aggressive Afforestation Program
The GLOF caused widespread destruction of forests along the Teesta Valley. An aggressive reforestation initiative is needed to restore the valley’s ecosystem, prevent soil erosion, and help regulate the river's flow.
Conclusion
By implementing these crucial structural and non-structural mitigation measures, the Teesta Valley can be better prepared to withstand future monsoonal floods, protecting both lives and livelihoods. Urgent and coordinated action in the coming months is essential to prevent another disaster on the scale of the 2023 GLOF. The time to act is now, before the monsoons of 2025 arrive.
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We will submit the Memo to other officials as well.
Our thanks to all those who volunteered in making this community initiative possible
Praful Rao
Darjeeling Himalaya Initiative & SaveTheHills
9475033744
Roshan Rai
Darjeeling Himalaya Initiative
9932024812
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