Prime Minister Narendra Modi said on Sunday that he was “deeply pained” by the loss of life in West Bengal’s Darjeeling district after heavy rains triggered landslides and caused an iron bridge to collapse. He posted his condolences on X, wishing the injured a quick recovery and “deeply pained by the loss of lives due to a bridge mishap in Darjeeling.”
At least 13 people died in the North Bengal hills after several nights of relentless rain. Nine of those deaths occurred when the bridge in Mirik gave way. Four more people perished in separate landslides in the Sukhia area.
The government is stepping in to help those affected. “The situation in Darjeeling and surrounding areas is being closely monitored,” Modi told followers, adding that the Centre will provide all possible assistance to the victims.
Roads have closed and communication is cut off, especially to Sikkim and Kalimpong, where the Teesta River has risen above danger levels and washed away NH‑10. Even the main road to Darjeeling city is disrupted, leaving tourists stranded in several destinations.
Tourist sites across Darjeeling have shut down. Travelers have been advised to stay put in their hotels and not venture out until the situation clears.
Rescue teams are on the ground, but the Meteorological Office warns that heavy rain is forecast for the next two days. The forecast could worsen the damage and slow rescue efforts.
Earlier that week, the Regional Meteorological Centre in Kolkata’s Alipore predicted the downpour, and a “very heavy rain” alert was issued for Darjeeling. The continuous rain started Saturday night and continued into Sunday morning, crushing the hill areas.
The government remains on alert. Modi’s pledge to offer full support comes as experts urge swift relief and warn of further flooding risks. Meanwhile, travelers and locals alike await the weather to ease and for the state to restore essential services.
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