Sun Oct 19 18:27:57 UTC 2025: Okay, here’s a summary and a news article based on the provided text:

Summary:

Torrential rains caused devastating floods and landslides in North Bengal (Darjeeling, Jalpaiguri, and surrounding districts) on October 5, 2025, resulting in over 30 deaths and leaving thousands homeless. The West Bengal government, led by Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, has initiated relief and rehabilitation efforts, including seeking donations to the WBSDMA Fund. Following a ₹1 lakh donation by Trinamool Congress General Secretary Abhishek Banerjee, several other Trinamool leaders, including MPs and MLAs, have also contributed to the relief fund. A State-level Task Force has been formed for relief and reconstruction, with ongoing efforts to provide shelter, essentials, and damage assessment.

News Article:

North Bengal Reels from Devastating Floods; Political Leaders Step Up Relief Efforts

Kolkata, October 19, 2025 – The aftermath of the October 5th floods and landslides in North Bengal continues to grip the region, with over 30 lives lost and thousands displaced due to torrential rains. Darjeeling, Jalpaiguri, and other districts remain heavily impacted, prompting a widespread relief effort led by the West Bengal government.

Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has visited the affected areas twice in recent weeks, assessing the ongoing rehabilitation measures. Her administration is actively soliciting donations to the West Bengal State Disaster Management Authority (WBSDMA) Fund to bolster relief efforts.

A wave of support has emerged from within the Trinamool Congress (TMC) party. Following an initial donation of ₹1 lakh by TMC General Secretary Abhishek Banerjee, numerous senior party members have followed suit. MPs Mahua Moitra, Derek O’Brien, Ritabrata Banerjee, and Prakash Chik Baraik are among those who have contributed ₹1 lakh each, announcing their donations publicly on social media. Several MLAs have also made contributions to the WBSDMA.

“Unforeseen floods and landslides have devastated parts of the northern districts of West Bengal,” stated Mr. Banerjee in a social media post, urging others to contribute.

The West Bengal government has established a State-level Task Force dedicated to relief, restoration, and reconstruction in the flood-affected areas. The task force convened its first meeting on Saturday, October 18th, bringing together state ministers and senior officials to coordinate the response.

According to government reports, 19 relief shelters are currently operational in Darjeeling, housing 640 individuals. Over 200 damage assessment teams and 21 outreach camps are assisting with housing and infrastructure damage assessments and re-issuance of crucial documents for affected residents.

The situation remains critical, and the West Bengal government continues to appeal for aid as it works to rebuild shattered lives and infrastructure in the region.

Read More