Heavy Rains Trigger Landslides in Darjeeling; Tourist Spots Closed, 3 Dead

At least three people were killed and several others injured after relentless rains triggered landslides and flash floods across Darjeeling and nearby regions of North Bengal, officials confirmed on Monday. The heavy downpour has caused widespread disruption, forcing the closure of popular tourist destinations and suspension of transport services.

According to the Darjeeling district administration, continuous rainfall since Sunday night led to landslides in areas such as Mirik, Sukhia Pokhri, and Kurseong, damaging homes and blocking key roads connecting Darjeeling to Siliguri and Sikkim. Rescue teams comprising the NDRF, police, and local authorities have been deployed to clear debris and assist stranded residents and tourists.

In view of safety concerns, the Gorkhaland Territorial Administration (GTA) has ordered the temporary shutdown of major tourist attractions, including Tiger Hill, Rock Garden, and the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway (toy train). Officials have urged visitors to avoid unnecessary travel as the region remains under a red alert issued by the India Meteorological Department (IMD). The IMD has predicted more heavy to very heavy rainfall in the next 48 hours.

Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee expressed grief over the deaths and said the state government is closely monitoring the situation. She announced that emergency relief camps have been set up for affected families. Prime Minister Narendra Modi also conveyed condolences and assured full central assistance for rescue and relief efforts.

Images from the affected areas show collapsed bridges, washed-out roads, and swollen rivers inundating low-lying regions. With communication lines disrupted and transport links cut off, authorities are prioritizing restoration of connectivity and delivery of essential supplies. Officials have warned residents in hilly areas to remain alert as more landslides are feared due to the continuing downpour.