📷 Image: Wikimedia Commons / Ministry of Defence
Weather
Sikkim launches emergency helplines after Nepal flash floods kill 162
✍️ India Today NE
🗓 27 Aug 2026, 12:03 PM
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Following the flash floods that swept Nepal and claimed 162 lives, the state of Sikkim has set up dedicated helplines to assist affected families and coordinate relief efforts.
Heavy rain triggered flash floods in Nepal earlier this week, resulting in at least 162 fatalities and widespread displacement. The disaster prompted neighboring Indian states to monitor the situation closely, with Sikkim taking immediate action to support cross‑border relief.
The Sikkim Disaster Management Authority (SDMA) announced the activation of two 24‑hour toll‑free helpline numbers – one for relatives seeking information about missing persons and another for volunteers and NGOs offering assistance. The lines are staffed by disaster officials and multilingual operators to cater to both Nepali and Indian callers.
SDMA officials said the helplines will also serve as a channel to relay real‑time updates from Nepalese authorities, ensuring that rescue teams in Sikkim can respond swiftly to any spill‑over effects. Residents of border districts have been advised to stay alert and follow safety advisories issued by the state government.
The move underscores Sikkim's commitment to regional cooperation in disaster management, as the state continues to coordinate with Kathmandu and the National Disaster Management Authority of India to mitigate the humanitarian impact of the floods.
The Sikkim Disaster Management Authority (SDMA) announced the activation of two 24‑hour toll‑free helpline numbers – one for relatives seeking information about missing persons and another for volunteers and NGOs offering assistance. The lines are staffed by disaster officials and multilingual operators to cater to both Nepali and Indian callers.
SDMA officials said the helplines will also serve as a channel to relay real‑time updates from Nepalese authorities, ensuring that rescue teams in Sikkim can respond swiftly to any spill‑over effects. Residents of border districts have been advised to stay alert and follow safety advisories issued by the state government.
The move underscores Sikkim's commitment to regional cooperation in disaster management, as the state continues to coordinate with Kathmandu and the National Disaster Management Authority of India to mitigate the humanitarian impact of the floods.