DARJEELING – Relentless monsoon rains triggered severe floods and landslides across India’s eastern hill region of Darjeeling, leaving at least 18 dead and large-scale destruction in their wake. Authorities said on October 6 that homes, bridges, and roads were washed away, while neighboring Nepal reported a climbing death toll of 50 from similar calamities.
Local officials in West Bengal confirmed that several people remained missing as emergency teams launched relief and restoration operations amid fears that casualties could rise, especially from remote mountain villages. Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee said in a message on X that two iron bridges had collapsed and vast stretches of land were inundated. She reported that the districts of Darjeeling, Kalimpong, Jalpaiguri, and Alipurduar, known globally for their tea gardens, were among the most heavily affected regions
.Dr. H.R. Biswas, head of the regional meteorological center in Kolkata, warned that more rainfall is expected following the “extremely heavy” downpours that lashed Darjeeling over the weekend. The intense rainfall caused a section of an iron bridge over the Balason River, which connects Siliguri to the hill town of Mirik, to collapse, disrupting road traffic and isolating several communities.
Disaster management teams reported that thick layers of mud and debris littered major roads, hampering rescue operations and making many hilly areas inaccessible. Visuals from the region showed submerged roads, uprooted trees, and homes on the brink of collapse as continuous rain battered the slopes of the Himalayas.
Darjeeling, a well-known hill resort celebrated for its scenic beauty and views of Mount Kanchenjunga, now faces one of its worst natural crises in recent years. Banerjee advised tourists stranded in the region to remain in safe shelters until proper evacuation could be ensured.
Across the border in Nepal, the eastern district of Ilam, bordering India,has borne the brunt of the disaster. Authorities reported 37 deaths from separate landslides in the area, adding to the nationwide total of 50 fatalities. “Rescue teams are digging through mud and debris to find survivors and clear blocked roads,” said district official Bholanath Guragain.
As the situation unfolds, both Indian and Nepali disaster relief units are intensifying efforts to aid survivors, restore connectivity, and prevent further losses amid continuing warnings of heavy rainfall.