Severe rainfall and multiple landslides have claimed at least seven lives in West Bengal&rsquo;s Darjeeling district, leaving the region devastated. The continuous downpour since Saturday night led to flash floods, infrastructure damage, and the collapse of an iron bridge over the Balason River.
The Dhudia bridge, which connects Siliguri and Mirik, was washed away under the pressure of the swollen river, cutting off vital connectivity in the hills. Several homes were also destroyed in Mirik and nearby areas.
According to reports, a landslide at Dara Gaon near Soureni struck a house during the early hours of Sunday, killing four people who had travelled from Siliguri to celebrate the Dasai (Dussehra) festival.
Local authorities and rescue teams have been deployed to assess damage and assist affected families. Darjeeling MP Raju Bista expressed grief over the tragedy, confirming multiple deaths and widespread property loss in both Darjeeling and Kalimpong districts.
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a red alert for the sub-Himalayan districts of North Bengal, including Darjeeling, Kalimpong, Jalpaiguri, Cooch Behar, and Alipurduar. The nowcast from RMC Kolkata warns of extremely heavy rainfall in the region until noon Sunday.
The situation remains tense as authorities monitor river levels and landslide-prone zones to prevent further casualties.

Seven killed, bridge collapses as torrential rains and landslides hit North Bengal

Heavy Rains Trigger Deaths in Darjeeling

Seven killed, bridge collapses as torrential rains and landslides hit North Bengal

October 5, 2025 | 12:32 IST