Sun Oct 05 05:40:52 UTC 2025: **Summary:**
Continuous heavy rainfall has caused widespread devastation in North Bengal, leading to landslides, road closures, and waterlogging. At least 14 people have died in Darjeeling district. Road connectivity between West Bengal and Sikkim is severed, disrupting travel and tourism. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued red and orange alerts for the region, forecasting continued rainfall. The Gorkhaland Territorial Administration (GTA) has closed tourist spots, and Darjeeling toy train services are suspended. Authorities are urging caution and have mobilized rescue and relief efforts. Opposition leader Suvendu Adhikari has called for immediate action from the state government to restore communication networks and provide relief to affected citizens.
**News Article:**
**Landslides Triggered by Torrential Rain Kill At Least 14, Cripple North Bengal**
**Darjeeling, October 5, 2025** – At least 14 people have died in Darjeeling district as incessant overnight rain triggered devastating landslides across North Bengal. The worst affected areas are Mirik and Sukhia Pokhari, where rescue operations are ongoing, and officials fear the death toll may rise.
The heavy rainfall has severely disrupted transportation networks, cutting off road connections between West Bengal and Sikkim. National Highway 10 is blocked at multiple locations due to landslides. Key routes like the one from Kalimpong to Darjeeling via Teesta Bazar are closed due to flooding, and connectivity via Coronation Bridge is also blocked. Authorities are advising commuters to use the Lava-Gorubathan stretch in Kalimpong as an alternative.
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) issued red and orange alerts, warning of continued heavy rainfall, thunderstorms, and gusty winds across Sikkim and North Bengal. Flash flood warnings are also in effect due to the situation in Bhutan.
The Gorkhaland Territorial Administration (GTA) has shut down tourist spots in Darjeeling, including Tiger Hill and Rock Garden, and suspended Darjeeling toy train services due to the severe weather.
“The hilly regions of Darjeeling, Kalimpong, and Kurseong have been severely affected, with communication and transport links to the plains almost completely disrupted,” stated West Bengal Leader of Opposition Suvendu Adhikari in a social media post. He urged the state government to immediately mobilize resources for rescue efforts and provide essential relief materials to affected communities.
Authorities are urging residents and travelers to exercise extreme caution and stay updated on weather and road conditions. Rescue and relief operations are underway as the region grapples with the impact of the relentless rainfall.
First Piper 