18 killed, several feared as heavy rain triggers landslides in Darjeeling, West Bengal

Darjeeling landslides: At least seventeen people were killed after the landslides in parts of Mirik in Darjeeling district. The unfortunate incident occurred due to the heavy rain, as per the report of a senior police officer on Sunday.

As per the police officials the rescue operations are underway, with the collaborative efforts of local administration, police, and disaster response teams.

In a statement to PTI, an officer said, "Several casualties are feared due to a major landslide in Darjeeling district triggered by heavy rainfall since last night. We don't have the exact figures right now as the rescue and relief work has just started."

An unconfirmed reports claimed that as many as 18 people have died in the landslide as of now. The officials stated that incessant rainfall has made the condition tough for emergency vehicles to reach the landslide affected area.

Earlier, Abhishek Roy, Additional SP Kurseong, Darjeeling district police, said, "Seven dead bodies have already been recovered from the debris. We have information about two more people. Work is being done to recover their bodies, too. A landslide occurred at Dilaram on the Kurseong road that goes to Darjeeling."

Rescue operations underway

As per the officer the rescue operations are said underway. He said, "The terrain is slippery, and there are reports of several houses being damaged. The extent of damage is yet to be ascertained."

Weather Office Alert

As per the weather officials, the rainfall in the area is expected to be held until October 7. The weather department has also warned of flash floods in North Bengal region.

Dudia Iron Bridge collapses

Due to the heavy rainfall the river water levels rose across several areas. Due to the heavy rainfall, the Dudhia Bridge, connecting Siliguri and Mirik, collapsed around 5 am today.