Weather

Heavy rainfall has triggered massive landslides across Darjeeling district,of West Bengal causing widespread devastation. Darjeeling has been hit by heavy rains. Heavy rains starting from Saturday night have disrupted traffic movement due to landslides in several parts of the hills area. Many tourists and locals have been stranded, especially on the main roads of the city, due to mud and stones. According to local sources till sunday evening at least 20 people have died and 2 are injured as homes have been flattened, roads damaged, and several remote villages cut off from communication.

 

However, the administration has quickly started rescue and road cleaning work. According to district administration sources that road cleaning and repair work has been going on in full swing since last night to bring the situation under control. It is expected that normal traffic will resume very soon.The authorities have issued red alerts for further heavy rainfall, raising fears of more landslides in the coming days. 

 

Meanwhile, Darjeeling Police has launched a special helpline for stranded tourists. Those who need assistance can directly contact the Darjeeling Police Control Room at +91 91478 89078. or Siliguri Police Control Room 0353-2662010, 0353-2662210, 7872707733, 7001310127, 9147889607 for any assistance. According to police sources, arrangements are being made to ensure the safety of tourists and to transport them to their destinations if necessary. Volvo bus and rented cars are being organised. The distressed tourists are requested to contact Siliguri Police Control Room for assistance.

 

Local administration and rescue workers are patrolling the affected areas of the mountains and taking those in danger to shelter camps. Meanwhile, the tourism department has also instructed hotel owners and guides to be vigilant.The administration has assured to stand by the people of North Bengal during this difficult time of natural calamity. Everyone is praying that nature will soon calm down and the mountains will return to their normal rhythm. Rescue teams, including the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), are working tirelessly amid massive terrain and continuous rain.