14 dead as heavy rains trigger landslides, road disruptions across North Bengal

Officials warned that the death toll may rise as rescue operations by the Darjeeling District Police continue amid persistent bad weather.

Multiple landslides have cut off road connections between West Bengal and Sikkim, with the main Darjeeling–Siliguri route blocked.

NH10 is closed at several locations, including Chitrey and Selfie Dara. NH717A remains under clearing operations.

The Kalimpong–Darjeeling road via Teesta Bazar is shut due to flooding near Rabijhora.

Access to the hills through Coronation Bridge has been blocked, prompting police to advise travelers to use the Lava–Gorubathan route as an alternative.

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) issued two red alerts overnight for all six districts of Sikkim, warning of heavy rainfall, thunderstorms, and gusty winds up to 40 kmph.

By early morning on October 5, the alert was downgraded to orange, but officials said rainfall is likely to continue until October 7.

Authorities have also cautioned that downstream flash floods may occur in parts of North Bengal due to heavy rainfall in neighboring Bhutan.

The Gorkhaland Territorial Administration (GTA) has shut down tourist spots in Darjeeling, including Tiger Hill and Rock Garden, until further notice.

The iconic Darjeeling Himalayan Railway (toy train) services have also been suspended because of unsafe track conditions.

Rescue and relief teams are working to restore connectivity and assist stranded tourists.

Leader of Opposition Suvendu Adhikari urged the state administration to mobilize emergency resources and prioritize relief distribution, including food, medicines, and temporary shelters.

He wrote on X that communication links between the Darjeeling hills, Kalimpong, and Kurseong and the plains of Siliguri, Terai, and Dooars have been “almost completely disrupted due to landslides and flooding,” calling the situation critical.

"I urge the Chief Secretary of West Bengal to immediately mobilize resources and make adequate arrangements for the swift restoration of communication networks in these areas. Additionally, priority must be given to the distribution of relief materials, including food, water, medicines, and temporary shelters, to aid the people in distress to prevent further escalation of this crisis.

"The safety and well-being of our fellow citizens in North Bengal should be paramount," he said.