Heavy rainfall and subsequent landslides have struck the Darjeeling district of West Bengal, resulting in multiple fatalities and significant infrastructural damage. The severe weather conditions have led to the collapse of an iron bridge, disrupting transportation and daily life in the region.

At least six people have been confirmed dead in the Mirik area due to landslides triggered by the incessant rainfall. The Dudia Iron Bridge, a vital link connecting Siliguri and Mirik, as well as Mirik and Kurseong, has collapsed, effectively halting traffic and isolating communities. National Highway 110 near Kurseong has also been impacted, with a landslide reported in Hussain Khola, leaving roads buried under mud and debris.

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) had issued a red alert for Darjeeling, Kalimpong, Cooch Behar, Jalpaiguri, and Alipurduar, forecasting extremely heavy rainfall until Monday morning. An orange alert was also issued for Darjeeling, Jalpaiguri, Kalimpong, and Coochbehar. A yellow warning is in place for North Dinajpur, South Dinajpur, and Malda. The IMD has stated that a well-marked low-pressure area over west Jharkhand and nearby regions is moving north-northeast towards Bihar and is likely to weaken into a low-pressure zone. Light to moderate rain is expected in South Bengal, with isolated heavy showers in Murshidabad, Birbhum, and Nadia districts until Monday morning.

Visuals from the affected areas reveal submerged roads and highways blocked by landslides, highlighting the extent of the damage. The continuous downpour has created a flood-like situation in parts of North Bengal, with rivers like the Teesta and Mal flowing well above the danger mark. Jalpaiguri's Malbazar area is reportedly submerged.

Movement of vehicles has been restricted on the Siliguri-Darjeeling SH-12 road after the Dudhia iron bridge collapsed.

BJP leader and MP for Darjeeling, Raju Bista, expressed his concern about the extensive damage and loss of life caused by the heavy rainfall. He appealed for coordinated relief efforts to assist those affected by the disaster.

Authorities have urged caution, and rescue operations are ongoing. The IMD has advised that heavy to very heavy rainfall is expected to continue across sub-Himalayan West Bengal until Monday.