Daijiworld Media Network – Darjeeling

Darjeeling, Oct 5: Darjeeling in north Bengal has been hit by heavy rains, triggering landslides that have claimed 14 lives and cut off key road connectivity, including routes to the Himalayan state of Sikkim. Areas such as Mirik and Sukhia Pokhari were worst affected, prompting police and local administration to launch rescue operations.

The landslides have blocked major roads, including the highway linking Darjeeling to Siliguri and the Bengal–Sikkim corridor. The calamity comes at a time when many tourists from Kolkata and other parts of Bengal visit the region after Durga Puja, putting visitors at risk.

To ensure safety, the Gorkhaland Territorial Administration has closed tourist spots like Tiger Hill and Rock Garden, and suspended toy train services. Residents and tourists have been advised to stay alert and monitor road and weather updates.

Darjeeling MP Raju Bista expressed concern over the damage, stating that the heavy rains have led to loss of life, property, and infrastructure, and that he is coordinating with relevant authorities. Other parts of north Bengal, including Jalpaiguri, Siliguri, and Cooch Behar, have also been affected, with waterlogging reported in several areas.

The weather office had issued red warnings for Sikkim, predicting moderate thunderstorms, heavy rains, and gusty winds, and indicated that rainfall may continue until October 7, raising the risk of flash floods. Visuals from the affected areas show damaged bridges, washed-out roads, and rivers in spate. The same weather system has also impacted Nepal, where 22 people have died in the past 36 hours.