In a heartbreaking incident, at least 20 people have died in devastating landslides triggered by heavy rainfall in Darjeeling, West Bengal. The iconic hill station, famous for its tea gardens and scenic beauty, is now grappling with chaos as rescue operations continue under challenging weather conditions. Authorities have closed major tourist attractions, and Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee will visit the affected areas tomorrow to assess the situation.
The Tragedy Unfolds
The landslides occurred late on Tuesday night, impacting areas like Sukhia, Mirik, and parts of Darjeeling town. Homes were buried under mud and debris as incessant rains over the past week destabilized the hilly terrain. Rescue teams, including the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) and local police, are tirelessly searching for survivors, but heavy rains and slippery conditions are hindering their efforts. Several people remain missing, and the death toll is feared to rise.
Tourist Spots Closed, Travel Advisories Issued
In response to the disaster, the district administration has shut down key tourist spots, including Tiger Hill, Batasia Loop, and the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway (Toy Train). Travel advisories have been issued, urging tourists to avoid the region until further notice. This closure has severely impacted the local tourism industry, which was recovering from the COVID-19 pandemic.
CM Mamata Banerjee To Visit Tomorrow
Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee expressed her condolences and announced her visit to Darjeeling tomorrow to oversee relief efforts. In a tweet, she stated, “Deeply saddened by the loss of lives in the Darjeeling landslides. Rescue operations are underway, and we are doing everything possible to help those affected.” The state government has announced ₹2 lakh ex-gratia for the families of the deceased and ₹50,000 for the injured. Emergency shelters have also been set up for displaced residents.
Weather Warnings and Future Precautions
The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a red alert for Darjeeling, predicting heavy rainfall over the next 48 hours. Experts warn of further landslides due to saturated soil and urge residents to stay alert. Environmentalists have called for stricter regulations on construction and deforestation to prevent future disasters.
A Community in Mourning
The Darjeeling community has rallied together, with volunteers assisting rescue teams and providing essentials to affected families. Social media is flooded with messages of support and donations from across the country. This tragedy highlights the fragility of the Himalayan ecosystem and the need for better disaster preparedness.
Stay tuned to NextMinuteNews for the latest updates on this developing story.
