Kathmandu. A flash flood in the Mo Chu River in Punakha of Bhutan has caused destruction. The solar irrigation lifting system installed in Dochukha-Jomlingthang-Ritsa Chibog has been partially damaged.
The system is said to have gone out of service after the flash floods. According to a local leader, the system is now non-functional.
However, the exact extent of the damage is yet to be assessed. It is worth noting that this solar system was installed earlier this year to provide relief to local residents from irrigation problems.
On the other hand, the heavy debris brought by the flash floods has also disrupted road traffic. A portion of the Punakha-Gasa highway in the Jomlingthang area has been blocked due to the debris. This has caused inconvenience to the residents.
It is to be noted that the sudden release of water from the lake in Bhutan has caused destruction in many areas. Fearing that it may reach West Bengal in India, the Alipurduar administration has launched a massive rescue operation. Around 10,000 people in the district have been shifted to safer places and kept in schools and relief camps.
An SDRF team has been deployed to deal with the threat of possible floods. Meanwhile, an NDRF team has also reached the spot.
Meanwhile, it has been reported that the water level in Kumargram area has receded and everyone is safe.
Alipurduar Superintendent of Police Amit Kumar Shah urged people not to panic and said, “The situation is completely under control. The district administration, police, BDO and other agencies are working together. The administration is also in touch with the Bhutanese authorities. ’
