Tragedy Strikes Darjeeling: Landslides Claim Lives, Leaders Race to Respond

A wave of unimaginable grief has swept across North Bengal as a series of devastating landslides, triggered by relentless rainfall, ripped through the picturesque districts of Darjeeling and Kalimpong. The calamity has claimed at least 13 precious lives, left many injured, and several others missing, turning idyllic landscapes into scenes of profound destruction and despair.

The scale of the disaster is staggering.

Entire stretches of vital roadways, including the crucial NH-10 and NH-55, have been rendered impassable, severing connectivity and hampering rescue efforts. Homes were swallowed by the earth, leaving countless families displaced and their livelihoods shattered. Areas like Gayabari, Rongtong, Paglajhora, Kalijhora, and Mongpong bore the brunt of nature's fury, witnessing unimaginable damage.

In the wake of this tragedy, political leaders have swiftly responded, extending their deepest condolences and promising support.

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee expressed profound sorrow, assuring that her government stands firmly with the affected families. She announced her imminent visit to North Bengal to personally assess the grim situation on the ground, pledging all necessary assistance for relief and rehabilitation.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi also conveyed his heartfelt grief over the loss of lives.

Demonstrating solidarity, the Prime Minister's Office announced an ex-gratia payment of Rs 2 lakh from the Prime Minister's National Relief Fund (PMNRF) to the next of kin of each deceased person. Additionally, Rs 50,000 would be provided to those who sustained injuries, offering a glimmer of financial support amidst the overwhelming loss.

Joining the chorus of condolences, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi expressed his anguish over the tragic landslides.

He not only offered his sympathies to the grieving families but also announced his intention to visit the disaster-struck regions of Darjeeling and Sikkim, aiming to connect with the victims and understand their plight firsthand. Such high-profile visits underscore the gravity of the situation and the unified national concern.

On the ground, a formidable team of National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) and State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) personnel, alongside local administration and emergency services, are working tirelessly.

Their relentless efforts are focused on search and rescue operations, clearing debris, and providing immediate relief to those stranded and displaced. The treacherous terrain and continuous inclement weather, however, pose significant challenges to these life-saving missions.

As North Bengal grapples with this immense natural catastrophe, the focus remains squarely on saving lives, providing care for the injured, and offering solace to those who have lost everything.

The road to recovery will be long and arduous, but the collective response from various levels of government and aid agencies offers a ray of hope for the beleaguered communities.