Heavy rainfall caused landslides that killed at least 23 people in West Bengal's Darjeeling district on Sunday, and officials confirmed seven of the victims were children. The landslides destroyed homes, damaged roads, and blocked access to remote areas across multiple locations. West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee reported that more than 300 millimeters of rain fell within 12 hours, and water from the Bhutan and Sikkim rivers worsened conditions. The India Meteorological Department issued a red alert for sub-Himalayan West Bengal through Oct. 6.
Authorities said two people remain missing as rescue teams struggle with slippery terrain and damaged infrastructure. Roads remain impassable in several villages, and earthmovers cannot operate safely on steep slopes. Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Droupadi Murmu expressed condolences to the affected families. Bhutan's Tala Hydropower Dam overflow from a technical failure, prompting authorities across North Bengal to maintain a high alert status.
Authorities said two people remain missing as rescue teams struggle with slippery terrain and damaged infrastructure. Roads remain impassable in several villages, and earthmovers cannot operate safely on steep slopes. Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Droupadi Murmu expressed condolences to the affected families. Bhutan's Tala Hydropower Dam overflow from a technical failure, prompting authorities across North Bengal to maintain a high alert status.
