The heavy rains triggered multiple landslides in the major parts of Mirik and Sukhia Pokhri of Darjeeling.
Sixteen deaths have been confirmed so far, following the heavy rain encouraging landslides in Darjeeling, West Bengal.
There has been continuous rain in extreme volume since last night in the city. The heavy rains triggered multiple landslides in the major parts of Mirik and Sukhia Pokhri of Darjeeling.
This led to much of the devastation in the city. Several houses, transportation and communication links have been disrupted. Due to this, even the rescue operations were being much more difficult due to the slippery terrain.
Following this, the administration and local police officials are dedicatedly working towards the rescue operations, and are providing the necessary relief.
The Gorkhaland Territorial Administration (GTA) has already shut down tourist sites in the area to ensure public safety. The tourist attractions which are shut include Tiger Hill and Rock Garden.
There have been many disturbing videos circulating across social media. People as well are sharing the visuals on Twitter. A person while sharing the video mentioned that-
“At least six people have died in Darjeeling district, following a landslide in Mirik. The Dudia Iron Bridge, a critical connection between Mirik and Kurseong, has collapsed, cutting off traffic. Heavy downpours have wrecked havoc in North Bengal.”
Another person shared the visuals where a portion of the Dudhia Iron Bridge on the Siliguri-Darjeeling SH-12 road collapsed. “According to preliminary information, one of the landslides occurred on the Mirik-Sukhiapokhri road, disrupting the movement of vehicles and communication links to several adjoining areas,” mentioned the post.
Weather Forecast
The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) under its weather forecast has released the advisory that heavy and very heavy rainfall to continue in the sub-Himalyan districts of West Bengal.
Amidst this, the authorities have issued red warning which state of the highest severity for the following districts-
- Darjeeling
- Kalimpong
- Cooch Behar
- Jalpaiguri
- Alipurduar
