New Delhi, India — Torrential rains led to devastating landslides in the hilly regions of Mirik and Darjeeling, resulting in at least 20 fatalities and dozens injured, according to local authorities. Homes were destroyed, roads rendered impassable, and hundreds of tourists found themselves stranded in popular vacation spots as officials scrambled to manage the crisis.
The National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) has mobilized resources in tandem with district authorities to facilitate rescue operations in the most affected areas. Udayan Guha, West Bengal’s North Bengal Development Minister, characterized the unfolding situation as “alarming.” He noted that the death toll, currently at 20, is expected to rise as more information comes in from the ground.
Mirik has been severely impacted, recording 11 deaths as a result of the landslides. Reports indicate that seven individuals have already been rescued from affected locations, where homes were buried beneath mud and debris.
In the neighboring Darjeeling area, seven fatalities were reported due to significant landslides spawned by persistent rainfall. There is ongoing support from police and disaster response teams as they continue their relentless efforts to reach those trapped.
Communities such as Sarsaly, Jasbirgaon, and areas near Mirik Lake have experienced substantial damage. The widespread impact is evident as the destruction crosses several villages, highlighting the scope of this disaster.
The crisis occurs amid a season when many tourists, especially families from Kolkata and surrounding regions, travel to the hill stations for cultural festivities associated with Durga Puja. Many visitors now find themselves stranded, with emergency services working diligently to address the unfolding situation.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed condolences on social media and emphasized the government’s commitment to offering assistance to affected families. He acknowledged the gravity of the situation and assured that monitoring efforts would continue closely.
West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has declared the situation “grave” and announced compensation for the victims, stating that she plans to visit North Bengal to assess the damage firsthand. She mentioned that excessive rainfall in Bhutan has contributed to the crisis in Darjeeling and Mirik.
Ongoing rescue operations have successfully evacuated around 40 individuals from Dhar Gaon, where mudslides destroyed numerous homes. Temporary relief camps have also been established to provide shelter to families displaced by the disaster.
Key transportation routes such as the Mirik-Sukhiapokhri road remain blocked, complicating communication efforts and isolating several settlements. An iron bridge that connects Siliguri with the Mirik-Darjeeling route sustained damage, further hindering access.
The India Meteorological Department has issued a red alert for the sub-Himalayan region, warning of further potentially dangerous conditions. Continuous rainfall and challenging terrain are hampering rescue efforts, as both official agencies and local NGOs strive to deliver aid to the affected population.