An overflowing glacial lake in Bhutan has raised fears of flash floods in the Mo Chhu (Sankosh) river system, prompting alerts in West Bengal's Alipurduar and Cooch Behar districts.
According to a report from the Senior Joint Commissioner of FM, around 7.4 million cubic metres of water have flowed out of the lake. The water could reach the Puna-I dam area within 10 to 15 minutes.
All monitoring stations along the lower Sankosh basin have been instructed to remain on high alert and closely monitor river levels.
The Central Water Commission has specifically alerted its stations at Barobisha, Sankosh LRP, Golakganj and Baladoba.
Residents in low-lying areas have been advised to remain cautious and follow instructions from local authorities.
-AJM