A burst occurred upstream of a lake in the north of the state, resulting in an alarming rise in water levels in the Teesta River.

After a nearby dam released more water into the river, the situation worsened.

Some army vehicles were submerged under the slush, officials said.

According to the Indian defence ministry, a search and rescue operation has been launched and more information is pending.

In other parts of the state, entire neighbourhoods have also been flooded, causing damage to homes and displacing residents.

Low-lying areas have been evacuated by authorities.

As a result, two bridges that connect the northern region with the rest of the state have been washed away, severely impacting transportation.

Floods and natural disasters are common in the Himalayan state. Tens of thousands were displaced and at least 24 people were killed by severe flooding in the state last year.