17 dead as Darjeeling faces devastating landslides, Sikkim cut off

At least 17 people have lost their lives in Darjeeling after relentless heavy rains triggered multiple landslides, officials confirmed on October 4 night. Road connectivity to critical Himalayan routes, including the road linking West Bengal to Sikkim, has been severed, leaving the region in crisis.

Darjeeling and surrounding areas, including Mirik and Sukhia Pokhari, received intense rainfall overnight, prompting the police and local administration to launch rescue operations. Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee is scheduled to visit the affected region tomorrow to assess the situation.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed grief over the disaster on X, saying, “We are deeply pained by the loss of lives in Darjeeling and are committed to providing all possible assistance to those affected.”

The landslides have blocked several major routes, including the Siliguri-Darjeeling highway, disrupting travel and communication. With the Durga Puja holiday drawing large numbers of tourists from Kolkata and across Bengal, many visitors are likely caught in the calamity.

To prevent further incidents, the Gorkhaland Territorial Administration (GTA) has ordered the closure of key tourist sites, including Tiger Hill and Rock Garden. Toy train services have also been suspended.

Authorities have urged both residents and tourists to exercise caution and remain updated on weather and road conditions. The Bengal Police have set up a dedicated hotline for assistance: 9147889078.

Darjeeling MP Raju Bista highlighted the scale of the disaster on X, stating, “There have been deaths, property losses, and extensive damage to infrastructure. I am coordinating with the relevant authorities to take stock of the situation.”

The heavy rains have also affected other parts of North Bengal, including Jalpaiguri, Siliguri, and Cooch Behar, causing waterlogging and disruptions. The weather office had previously issued red warnings for North Bengal and Sikkim, predicting thunderstorms with lightning, heavy rains, and gusty winds. Officials have warned that rainfall may continue until October 7, with flash floods likely in North Bengal.

Visuals from the affected areas show rivers in spate, washed-out roads, and collapsed bridges. The same weather system has also wreaked havoc in neighboring Nepal, claiming 22 lives in the past 36 hours.