• Source:JND
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At least 17 people have died in Mirik, West Bengal’s Darjeeling district, following severe landslides and a bridge collapse triggered by heavy rainfall. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued an orange alert for Darjeeling, Jalpaiguri, Kalimpong, and Coochbehar for October 5, warning of continued heavy rain. A red alert remains in place for Alipurduar, while North Dinajpur, South Dinajpur, and Malda are under a yellow warning. Officials have cautioned that the death toll may rise as rescue operations continue.

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Bridge Collapsed 

The Dudia Iron Bridge, a vital link between Mirik and Kurseong, has collapsed, severing traffic and isolating local communities. Landslides have been reported at Hussain Khola along National Highway 110 near Kurseong. Several roads are fully blocked, and communication lines remain disrupted.

Roads Disrupted 

NH10 is blocked at multiple points due to landslides at Chitrey, Selfie Dara, and other locations. NH717A is being cleared at several landslide-affected spots. The Panbu–Kalimpong road remains open, while the Kalimpong–Darjeeling route via Teesta Bazar is closed due to flooding near Rabijhora and along the Teesta Bazar stretch. Connectivity to Sikkim and the Darjeeling hills via Coronation Bridge is blocked. Police have advised commuters to use the Lava–Gorubathan route in Kalimpong district as an alternative.

North Bengal Weather Forecast

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued an orange alert for Darjeeling, Jalpaiguri, Kalimpong, and Coochbehar on October 5, expecting heavy rainfall. Red alert is in place for Alipurduar, while yellow warnings cover North Dinajpur, South Dinajpur, and Malda. Heavy rain may continue throughout the day.

BJP MP Raju Bista 

In a social media post, the BJP MP Raju Bista wrote, "I am extremely anguished to learn about the massive damages caused due to extremely heavy rainfall in many parts of Darjeeling and Kalimpong districts. There have been deaths, and loss of properties, and damages to the infrastructure. I am taking stock of the situation, and in touch with the relevant authorities."

"We have already instructed our BJP karyakartas to mobilise in helping and assisting people. We will do everything in our power to help and assist our people. I also appeal to all our Alliance Partners, and other political and social organisations in the region to coordinate efforts, so that we can reach timely help and support to those in need," he added.

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The weather department has also advised people to avoid taking shelter under trees or electric poles and to stay away from water bodies.

Impact On Tourism 

Due to heavy rains and landslides, the Gorkhaland Territorial Administration (GTA) has closed tourist spots in Darjeeling, including Tiger Hill and Rock Garden, and suspended toy train services. Authorities have urged residents and travelers to exercise caution and stay updated on road and weather conditions as rescue and relief operations continue.