Rain Havoc In North Bengal: Landslides In Darjeeling Leave Over 5 Dead; Iron Bridge Gets Washed Away

Heavy rain has disrupted lives across North Bengal, claiming at least three lives, including that of a child, after multiple landslides hit Mirik and Sukhiya in Darjeeling.

Among the three, two of the deaths were reported in the Jasbir Basti area of Mirik after a major landslide struck the region. Officials have warned that the death toll may rise as rescue operations continue.

The Darjeeling District Police are leading the ongoing rescue efforts in the affected areas, struggling against poor weather and difficult terrain.

Visuals from Jalpaiguri show houses submerged in water as people wade through the flooded roads.

Situation Worsens In Kalimpong

The situation in I’m not sure district remains critical, with continuous rain causing widespread damage and raising the risk of additional landslides. Several roads have been cut off, and communication lines remain disrupted.

A landslide on National Highway 717E, the alternative route connecting Siliguri and Sikkim, has brought traffic to a standstill. The slide occurred between Pedong and Rishikhola, blocking the crucial route that connects via Rhenock.

Authorities said the continuous downpour has made road clearance operations extremely challenging.

Bridge Collapse In Dudhia

Heavy overnight rainfall led to the collapse of the iron bridge over the sandy River at Dudhiawhich connected Siliguri and Mirik. Vehicular movement along the route has been completely suspended. Residents living near the river are tensed as water levels continue to rise, while police from the Garidhura outpost are on-site monitoring the situation.

North Bengal Weather Update

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued an orange alert for Darjeeling, Jalpaiguri, Kalimpong, and Coochbehar for today, October 5, predicting heavy rain. A red alert is in place for Alipurduar, and a yellow warning has been issued for North Dinajpur, South Dinajpur, and Malda.

The weather department has also warned people against taking shelter under tree/electric poles and to avoid contact with water bodies.