President Murmu, PM Modi Express Grief As Heavy Rain And Landslides Claim 13 Lives In Darjeeling

President Droupadi Murmu on Sunday conveyed her sorrow over the loss of lives caused by heavy rainfall and landslides in Darjeeling, West Bengal.

Taking to X, she posted, “The tragic loss of lives due to heavy rain and landslides in Darjeeling, West Bengal, is distressing. I express my heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families. I pray for the success of rescue and relief operations and wish a speedy recovery to those injured.”

Earlier, Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his sorrow over the widespread damage caused by incessant rainfall in West Bengal’s Darjeeling. He assured that the Central Government is fully committed to supporting those affected.

Taking to X, PM Modi posted, “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 in Darjeeling and surrounding areas is being closely monitored in the wake of heavy rains and landslides. We are committed to providing all possible assistance to those affected,” the post further added.

In a separate post, the Prime Minister added, “Authorities are closely monitoring the situation in Darjeeling and surrounding areas affected by heavy rainfall and landslides. My thoughts are with the bereaved families. Wishing the injured a quick recovery.”

North Bengal Landslides Claim 13 Lives

Officials confirmed that at least 13 people have died in landslides across the North Bengal hills following continuous overnight downpours.

Nine of the fatalities occurred when an iron bridge collapsed in Mirik in Darjeeling district, while four others were killed in separate landslides in the Sukhia area.

Several roads have been washed away or blocked due to landslides, severely disrupting communication links.

The authorities reported that connectivity with Sikkim and Kalimpong has been completely severed after the Teesta River rose above the danger mark, destroying NH-10.

Even access to Darjeeling town itself has been interrupted.

Many tourists remain stranded at various locations, and rescue operations are currently in progress.

In response, the administration has shut down all tourist spots in Darjeeling.

Travellers in Darjeeling, Kalimpong and nearby areas have been instructed to remain inside their hotels for safety.

The Meteorological Department has forecast continued heavy rainfall in North Bengal over the next two days, raising concerns that the situation may deteriorate further and hinder rescue work.

The Regional Meteorological Centre in Alipore, Kolkata, had earlier issued a warning for very heavy rainfall in the Darjeeling district.

As predicted, the rain began on Saturday night and persisted into Sunday morning, causing extensive devastation across the hilly region.

Also Read: Sugar Cooperatives Have Immensely Benefited Under PM Modi, Says Amit Shah