Darjeeling–Nepal Rain Disaster: Dozens Killed, Tourists Stranded as Landslides Ravage Mirik and North Bengal

Heavy rainfall has caused significant destruction across the eastern Himalayan region, leading to severe landslides in Darjeeling. This disaster has resulted in numerous fatalities and left many tourists stranded in northern West Bengal, Nepal, and Bhutan. As information continues to emerge from the affected areas, we provide an overview of the current situation.

In West Bengal, at least 23 people have died due to the landslides, with children among the victims. The National Defence Response Force (NDRF) reported that 18 fatalities occurred in Darjeeling alone, with Mirik being the most severely impacted area. Additionally, five bodies were recovered from debris in Nagrakata, Jalpaiguri district. North Bengal Development Minister Udayan Guha indicated that the death toll might rise.

Impact on Nepal

Nepal has also suffered significantly since Friday, with at least 47 deaths attributed to flash floods and landslides caused by continuous rain. In Ilam district near the Indian border, 35 people died in separate landslide incidents. Nine individuals were swept away by floods, and three others were killed by lightning strikes.

Extent of Damage

The region experienced over 300 mm of rainfall within 12 hours, causing widespread flooding and destruction. Houses were flattened by landslides, and infrastructure suffered severe damage. "Two iron bridges have collapsed," stated Mamata Banerjee on X. Roads have been damaged or flooded across Darjeeling, Kalimpong, Jalpaiguri, Alipurduar districts.

Government Response

Authorities have taken several steps to address the crisis. West Bengal's Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee convened a high-level meeting and established a 24x7 control room for coordination. She announced compensation for victims and plans to visit north Bengal on October 6 to assess the situation firsthand. Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed condolences and assured close monitoring of the situation.

President Droupadi Murmu also conveyed her condolences and prayed for successful relief efforts in affected areas. Congress leaders Mallikarjun Kharge and Rahul Gandhi called for central assistance for disaster-hit regions.

Rescue Operations

The NDRF has been actively involved in rescue operations, evacuating over 160 individuals from Bengal as of Sunday night. In Jalpaiguri district alone, 105 people were evacuated by boat while another 55 used zip lines. Temporary relief camps have been set up with help from district administration and NGOs to relocate families from flood-affected areas.

Blocked Routes

Despite ongoing relief efforts, major routes remain obstructed. The road connecting Bengal and Sikkim is blocked along with the one linking Darjeeling to Siliguri.

Weather Outlook

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) issued a red alert for sub-Himalayan areas of West Bengal including Cooch Behar and Jalpaiguri districts due to expected heavy rainfall. An orange alert was issued for Darjeeling as more landslides are anticipated due to saturated soil conditions.

A flood alert had been previously issued following a malfunction at Bhutan's Tala Hydropower Dam gates earlier on Sunday.

The situation remains critical as authorities continue their efforts to manage this natural disaster effectively while ensuring safety measures are implemented promptly across all affected regions.