WB: Heavy rain leads to bridge collapse in Darjeeling; 6 dead, roads cut off

This bridge connected Mirik and surrounding areas to Siliguri-Kurseong. The accident, caused by heavy rains, has caused widespread panic in the area. The local administration launched relief and rescue operations.

Darjeeling: Incessant rains in Darjeeling have led to the collapse of the Dudia Iron Bridge in the Mirik area, killing six people.

This bridge connected Mirik and surrounding areas to Siliguri-Kurseong. The accident, caused by heavy rains, has caused widespread panic in the area. Upon receiving information about the accident, the local administration launched relief and rescue operations. However, the threat of landslides and floods is hampering rescue operations.

Several roads closed
The local administration reported that six deaths have been reported so far in Mirik. These include three in Saurani (Dhara village), two in Mirik Basti, and one in Vishnu village. The local administration has intensified rescue operations, but the situation remains complex due to the threat of landslides and floods.

Bengal: Massive rains trigger multiple landslides in Kalimpong; Life paralysed

Following the accident, a large tree fell in Dilaram (towards Darjeeling) and a landslide occurred in Hussain Khola. This has blocked the road to Darjeeling. Now, only Pankhabari and NH110 are open for access to Kurseong and Darjeeling. From Kurseong to Darjeeling, the downhill road (old military road) can be used.

Situation in Kalimpong 

Kalimpong district remains in a precarious condition as continuous rainfall wreaks havoc, causing extensive damage and heightening the risk of additional landslides. Multiple roads are completely blocked, and communication lines continue to be disrupted.

West Bengal Rains: Schools to remain closed for next two days in Kolkata; Full story here

A landslide on National Highway 717E, the key alternate route linking Siliguri and Sikkim, struck between Pedong and Rishikhola, bringing all traffic along this crucial corridor to a halt. Authorities have described road clearance efforts as extremely challenging due to the persistent downpour.