Deadly landslides in Darjeeling, Kalimpong claim at least 14 lives amid heavy rainfall

Torrential rains in North Bengal have triggered devastating landslides in Darjeeling and Kalimpong districts, resulting in at least 14 deaths, with fears that the toll may increase.

The downpour has also caused significant infrastructure damage, including the collapse of two iron bridges in Darjeeling and widespread flooding and road destruction across Darjeeling, Kalimpong, Jalpaiguri, and Alipurduar districts.

The landslides have claimed at least 14 lives in Darjeeling and Kalimpong, with several individuals still unaccounted for. Rescue operations involving the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) and local police reported two deaths each in Sarsaly and Jasbirgaon, and four in Dhar Gaon, Mechi. One fatality occurred near Mirik Lake in the Mirik Basti area, with two others reported missing. In Dhar Gaon, heavy mudslides demolished multiple homes, but rescue teams successfully saved approximately 40 people from the debris.

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Critical road networks, including National Highways 10 and 717A, which connect Sikkim to Bengal, have been severely disrupted. A massive landslide destroyed the bridge linking Pulbazar to Thanaline, while rising Teesta River waters and the collapse of another iron bridge have cut off access to Kalimpong. The Darjeeling Police have advised travellers to use the Ghoom route, as the Mirik Road remains impassable.

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West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee will visit the affected areas on October 6 to evaluate the situation. She expressed deep concern over the flooding in both North and South Bengal caused by sudden heavy rainfall and excessive river water inflow from neighbouring regions. Banerjee announced compensation for victims, though the amount was not disclosed.

The state has set up 24/7 control rooms, and she urged those in need to contact the Nabanna Disaster Management Control Room at +91 33 2214 3526 or +91 33 2253 5185, or use toll-free numbers +91 86979 81070 and 1070.