Heavy rainfall has triggered devastating floods and landslides in the Darjeeling region of India and neighboring Nepal, resulting in a tragic loss of life and widespread destruction. As of today, officials report that more than 70 people have died across the affected areas, and that number is expected to rise as rescue operations continue and details emerge from remote locations.
In India's Darjeeling, relentless rain has unleashed floods and landslides, washing away homes, roads, and bridges. At least 18 people have been killed in the region. Several individuals remain missing, and local government officials in West Bengal state are warning that the death toll is likely to increase as information trickles in from isolated areas. The districts of Darjeeling, Kalimpong, Jalpaiguri, and Alipurduar, known for their tea plantations, have been particularly hard-hit. West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee stated that two iron bridges have collapsed, numerous roads have been damaged and flooded, and large areas of land have been inundated. The downpour destroyed a critical iron bridge over the Balason River at Dudhia, which was the only direct route between Siliguri and Mirik, isolating nearby communities. Another bridge at Pulbazar was badly damaged. Rohini Road, a major connector between Darjeeling and the plains, has also caved in.
The Himalayan hill resort of Darjeeling, famed for its tea and panoramic views of Mount Kanchenjunga, has been severely affected. The heavy rains, which began on the night of October 3rd, exceeded the "exceptionally heavy rainfall" warning issued by the Indian Meteorology Department. This intense rainfall destroyed the Dudhia bridge over the Balason River, disrupting national and state highways. Tourists have been urged to stay put until safe evacuation can be arranged. Landslides have led to roadblocks on key routes, including the road connecting Sikkim and the one linking Darjeeling and Siliguri. Tourist spots in Darjeeling, including Tiger Hill and Rock Garden, have been closed. The Darjeeling Himalayan Railway has suspended service indefinitely.
Across the border in Nepal, the situation is equally dire. The death toll from floods and landslides has risen to 50, with the eastern district of Ilam, bordering India, reporting 37 deaths. Landslides have swept away entire villages in Ilam. According to local district official Sunita Nepal, heavy rains overnight caused the landslides. Rescue workers have been dispatched to the affected areas, but their efforts are being hampered by blocked roads. Helicopters and security personnel have been deployed to assist in rescue operations. Rivers in the capital, Kathmandu, have also swelled, inundating settlements along their banks. Landslides have blocked several highways and disrupted flights, leaving hundreds of travelers stranded, many of whom were returning after celebrating the Hindu festival of Dashain. Prime Minister Sushila Karki has stated that government agencies are fully prepared for rescue and relief efforts.
The लगातार rainfall has prompted severe weather warnings and travel restrictions. The government issued a severe rainfall warning for the eastern and central parts of the country, and major highways have been shut down.
The disaster has struck as hundreds of thousands of people were returning to the capital after celebrating Dashain, Nepal's biggest festival. Climate change has worsened the schedule, frequency, and intensity of monsoon rains, which typically occur from June to September and cause widespread death and destruction across South Asia.
