Grief has engulfed the picturesque hills of Darjeeling today after a series of devastating landslides, triggered by incessant pre-monsoon rains, claimed several lives and left a trail of destruction in the Kalimpong district. As rescue operations intensify, condolences and aid have been announced from the highest offices of the country.
What Caused the Devastating Landslides?
The calamity struck in the early hours of the morning in the Melli area of Kalimpong, a region already saturated from the effects of Cyclone Remal. Relentless downpours loosened the fragile Himalayan soil, causing massive sections of earth and debris to cascade down the slopes.
The landslides swept away homes in an instant, burying sleeping residents and severing crucial road links. The vital National Highway 10, which connects Sikkim and Kalimpong to the rest of India, has been severely impacted, complicating rescue efforts. Teams from the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), and local police are racing against time on treacherous terrain to find survivors.
President Murmu Expresses ‘Distress’ Over Tragedy
Expressing her sorrow over the loss of life, the President of India, Smt. Droupadi Murmu, conveyed her condolences to the families of the victims. In a message shared by the Rashtrapati Bhavan, she stated, “Saddened to learn about the loss of lives in a landslide in Darjeeling, West Bengal. My heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families. I pray for the speedy recovery of the injured.” The President’s words highlight the national mourning for this tragic event.
Mamata Banerjee Announces Compensation for Victims
Responding swiftly, West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee expressed her shock at the tragedy and announced immediate financial assistance for those affected. The Chief Minister is closely monitoring the situation and has directed the district administration to conduct rescue and relief operations on a war footing.
The Chief Minister’s Office announced the following compensation package:
* ₹2 lakh for the next of kin of those who died in the disaster.
* ₹50,000 for those who were seriously injured.
“Deeply shocked and saddened by the tragic loss of lives due to the landslide in Melli,” Ms. Banerjee said. “We have mobilised every resource to ensure the swift rescue of those trapped and to provide all possible aid to the affected.”
A Stark Reminder of Himalayan Vulnerability
This incident is a painful reminder of the ecological fragility of the Darjeeling Himalayas. For years, environmental experts have warned about the risks associated with unchecked construction and deforestation in this seismically active and landslide-prone region. The increasing frequency of extreme weather events, likely exacerbated by climate change, continues to heighten the danger for the local population.
As the search for the missing continues, the focus remains firmly on rescue and relief. The nation stands in solidarity with the people of Darjeeling, mourning the lives tragically cut short.
