Darjeeling hit by heavy rain, landslides; multiple deaths reported, iron bridge collapses

On Sunday, landslides and intense rains in West Bengal’s Darjeeling region claimed the lives of several people. Moreover, an iron bridge fell as a result of the heavy rains. The region’s intense rains caused damage and the collapse of the Dhudia bridge, an iron bridge that spans the Balason River between Siliguri and Mirik at Dudhia.

The excessive downpour has caused multiple fatalities and property losses, according to BJP leader Raju Bista, who is also the Darjeeling MP. Officials told HT that at least four people are thought to have died in Mirik as a result of the landslides, however the precise figure has not been disclosed.

Bista shared on X, “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.”

Along with Kalimpong, Cooch Behar, Jalpaiguri, and Alipurduar, the sub-Himalayan district was placed under a red alert by the India Meteorological Department on Saturday. According to the Sunday warnings, Cooch Behar, Darjeeling, Kalimpong, and Jalpaiguri are all under an orange alert for heavy rains, while Alipurduar is under a red alert.

However, according to the RMC Kolkata nowcast, Cooch Behar, Jalpaiguri, and Alipurduar are under a red alert for extremely heavy rain until noon.