Kolkata, Oct 5 – West Bengal MP Raju Bista, who has served two terms in Parliament for the Darjeeling seat, sent a letter to Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Sunday. The former BJP MP wants the state government to declare the recent floods, landslides and heavy rain in the hills, Terai and Dooars a “state‑level disaster.”
Bista said the rain that hit late last night, on October 4 and 5, caused huge damage in the Darjeeling hills and across the surrounding regions. He pointed out large‑scale loss of life, destroyed roads and bridges, and ruined farms, houses and livelihoods.
The MP also urged Mamata Banerjee to tell the Union government about the toll in North Bengal. He wants the central government to send extra resources to help the affected people.
“We also see the West Bengal government not calling the 2023 Teesta flood a disaster,” Bista added. “That left many people without compensation or support.” He pushed for prompt financial aid for all victims and stronger cooperation with the Union government for future help.
Bista expressed hope that the Chief Minister will act quickly, give relief and support, and work with the central government to rebuild damaged infrastructure and help people return to normal life.
So far, authorities report that 20 people have died in the hills after the heavy rain and landslides. The National Disaster Response Force and district officials confirmed deaths in Sarsaly, Jasbirgaon, Mirik Basti, Dhar Gaon (Mechi), Nagrakata and near Mirik Lake. North Bengal Development Minister Udayan Guha said the death toll “is likely to go up.”
As the flood crisis deepens, residents and officials seek urgent disaster declaration and comprehensive aid to rebuild the affected communities.
Source: ianslive
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