23 Dead, two missing as torrential rains trigger floods and landslides in Darjeeling

At least 23 people have died and two remain missing after heavy overnight rains caused severe flooding and landslides across North Bengal, including Darjeeling, Kalimpong, and Jalpaiguri districts. The deluge led to the collapse of two iron bridges, extensive road damage, and inundation of farmland and settlements.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed grief over the tragedy on X, stating, "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." "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," Modi said on X."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 Prime Minister assured.

President Droupadi Murmu mourned the loss, offering condolences and prayers for the success of rescue operations.

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee said she was “deeply worried” about the widespread devastation. She reported that over 300 mm of rainfall in just 12 hours, coupled with excessive inflows into rivers from Bhutan and Sikkim, triggered disasters across Darjeeling, Kalimpong, Jalpaiguri, and Alipurduar. “Two iron bridges have collapsed, several roads are damaged or blocked, and large tracts of land have been inundated,” Banerjee said, adding that she would personally visit the affected areas with the Chief Secretary. She is personally going to North Bengal tomorrow with the Chief Secretary to assess the situation and oversee relief efforts.

In Jalpaiguri, heavy rainfall caused embankment breaches along the River Mahananda, flooding homes and farmlands. Officials are urging affected residents to follow advisories and cooperate with rescue teams as relief and evacuation efforts continue across the rain-battered region.