Tragedy Strikes Darjeeling: Deadly Landslide Claims 18 Lives

A devastating landslide in Darjeeling, West Bengal, resulted in 18 fatalities and numerous injuries amidst heavy rainfall. Arun Sigchi, a GTA official, urged the government to declare it a national calamity and called for assistance. The natural disaster has caused significant property damage, prompting ongoing rescue efforts.

In a catastrophic event, a landslide triggered by persistent heavy rainfall has resulted in 18 deaths in Darjeeling, West Bengal. The tragedy unfolded in Mirik, where 11 people lost their lives, with Arun Sigchi, an Executive Member of the Gorkhaland Territorial Administration, urgently calling for the disaster to be declared a national calamity.

The relentless downpour, amounting to almost a cloudburst-like 200 mm, caused widespread devastation. In Mirik, where water was diverted into the village due to road blockages, deaths occurred both on the scene and en route to hospitals. Rescue operations have been intense, with the GTA involved in relief efforts and post-mortem procedures.

Sigchi highlighted the severe property damage, including the destruction of the Dudhia bridge, marking the gravity of the situation. Despite efforts by the NDRF to rescue over 160 individuals from the flood-affected areas, the situation remains dire. Local officials are urging the State and Central governments for immediate assistance to mitigate the crisis.