Darjeeling: A deluge of heavy rain and widespread landslides struck parts of Darjeeling district in West Bengal on Sunday, claiming multiple lives and wreaking havoc on infrastructure. Local reports confirm that at least six people have died in Mirik due to landslides.
In a dramatic development, an iron bridge over the Balason River at Dudhia, which connects Siliguri and Mirik, collapsed under the intense downpour, bringing traffic to a standstill.
BJP MP Raju Bista, representing Darjeeling, expressed deep sorrow over the fatalities and property losses. He stated that he is coordinating with local authorities to assess the damage and aid rescue efforts.
“I am extremely anguished to learn about the massive damages caused due to extremely heavy rainfall in many parts of Darjeeling and Kalimpong districts. There have been deaths, and loss of properties, and damages to the infrastructure. I am taking stock of the situation, and in touch with the relevant authorities,” Bista wrote on X.
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) had issued a red alert for the sub-Himalayan districts, including Darjeeling, Kalimpong, Cooch Behar, Jalpaiguri, and Alipurduar. For Sunday, a red alert remains active for Alipurduar, while Darjeeling, Kalimpong, Cooch Behar, and Jalpaiguri are under an orange alert. Meanwhile, extremely heavy rain is predicted in Cooch Behar, Jalpaiguri, and Alipurduar through midday, according to Kolkata’s Regional Meteorological Centre.
Rescue and relief operations are underway, although accessibility has been severely affected by roadblocks and structural damage caused by landslides. Local administration has urged residents in vulnerable areas to remain alert and follow official advisories.
