1. Darjeeling of West Bengal and incessant heavy rains in North Bengal have caused mass havoc. At least 18 people have died due to heavy rains and landslides in Darjeeling Hills, while more than 20 people died due to floods and flash floods in North Bengal. Officials estimate that loss and loss of life and property may increase.
- A major landslide in the Mirik-Sukhiapokhari region buried many houses and tea plantations in debris and soil.
- Bishnulal Village, Ward 3 Lake Side and Jasbir villages were the most affected,
- Dudia Iron Bridge collapsed, which disrupted connectivity between Mirik and Kursyong,
- Other major routes, such as Dilaram main road and whistle, are blocked due to landslides and floods, which stopped access to many villages and communities.,
2. The district administration has set up temporary relief camps and food and shelter are being provided to the affected families in collaboration with local NGOs. Medical teams are also engaged in relief work. However, rescue operations are slow due to continuous rain and hard geographical conditions.
3. Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a red alert for extreme heavy rain in Darjeeling and Kalipong districts. The department has warned that there is a possibility of landslides and road blockers due to surface and sloping land.
4. The National Center for Hydrology and Metrology, Bhutan has alerted the Government of West Bengal. The gates of the lock hydropower dam are not open, which can increase the water level of the river. If the gates open or break, the flash flood can cause havoc in the low -lying areas of North Bengal.
5. Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed condolences to the affected people and said, “Darjeeling has deep grief over the loss of bridge accident and rain. My condolences to the affected families. The injured are healthy quickly.” He also said that all possible assistance is being provided in the affected areas.
6. Sp Sharma, spokesperson of Gorkhaland Territorial Organization (GTA), said that at least 20 people have died due to floods and flash floods in North Bengal.
7. Officers and local communities have requested the government and relief agencies to send immediate help and resources.
8. Rains continue in the affected areas of Darjeeling and North Bengal, causing landslides and floods.
9. The administration is doing relief and rescue operations with various agencies.
10. Citizens have been warned not to stay in open places and stay in safe areas.
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