Rains Ravage Darjeeling, Kalimpong, Sikkim; Several Dead

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Multiple landslides and bridge collapses have severed vital links in North Bengal’s hill districts, with many feared dead.

By TRH News Desk

Darjeeling, October 5, 2025 — Torrential rains over the past 48 hours have unleashed severe devastation across Darjeeling, Kalimpong, and Sikkim, triggering landslides, bridge collapses, and widespread loss of life and property.

At least six deaths have been confirmed so far, with dozens feared missing as incessant downpours continue to pound the region. The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a red alert for extremely heavy rainfall across sub-Himalayan West Bengal until October 6, warning of further landslides and flash floods.

According to The Darjeeling Chronicle, multiple villages — including Bishnulal Gaon, Ward 3 Lake Side, and Jasbir Gaon in Mirik — have suffered extensive damage. Fatalities have also been reported from Pussumbing Tea Estate and Maneybhanjyang, where homes and roads have been swept away.

The collapse of the iron bridge over the Balason River at Dudhia has severed the key route between Siliguri and Mirik, cutting off communication to the plains. National Highway 10, a crucial link between Siliguri and Gangtok, remains blocked, while NH-717A and Panbu Road to Kalimpong are being cleared of debris.

Political leaders have called for swift action and solidarity across party lines. “I am extremely anguished to learn about the massive damages caused due to extremely heavy rainfall in many parts of Darjeeling and Kalimpong districts,” said Raju Bista, BJP MP from Darjeeling.

Rajya Sabha MP and former Foreign Secretary Harsh V. Shringla reported a death toll of “over 20 people” as per current estimates. “Areas across the hills have been cut off; roads destroyed,” he said, expressing condolences and announcing that his foundation, the Darjeeling Welfare Society, would support affected families.

Leader of Opposition Suvendu Adhikari urged the West Bengal government to act swiftly. “The hilly regions of Darjeeling, Kalimpong, and Kurseong have been severely affected, with communication and transport links to the plains almost completely disrupted,” he said. “Relief materials — food, water, medicines, and shelters — must reach people immediately.”

Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed grief on X (formerly Twitter): “Deeply pained by the loss of lives due to a bridge mishap in Darjeeling. Condolences to those who have lost their loved ones. May the injured recover soon. The situation is being closely monitored in the wake of heavy rains and landslides. We are committed to providing all possible assistance.”

Rescue and relief operations are ongoing, with teams from the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), state disaster units, and local volunteers deployed to clear debris, restore roads, and evacuate stranded residents.

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