The sinking valley

A 60-metre high dam has been built over the river Teesta, just below the confluence of the Chungthang valley in North Sikkim, which is known as the Teesta III Hydroelectric Project.

Recently, when I was heading towards Lachung, I came across this dam; a beautiful free flowing river, which was trapped in a manmade cage – what we know as dam – like animals in a zoo.

I was overwhelmed with emotions, as I took out my camera to capture that moment. I felt as if she was screaming out loud for help, and sending out signs that she might burst out loud – loud enough to crack through the walls and sweep away all in this valley along with her swirling angry waters in any unforeseen time.

By Chumit Lepcha

Place: Singhik Sentam, North Sikkim