NewzVille Flood Update
Heavy rainfall has caused widespread devastation in India’s Darjeeling hills of West Bengal, triggering landslides that have claimed 20 lives when last report came. Several villages are cut off due to damaged infrastructure.
The major affected areas include Darjeeling and Kalimpong. In addition, a critical connection between Mirik and Kurseong, the Dudia Iron Bridge, has collapsed, resulting in the cutting off of traffic and isolating local communities.
Landslides have also been reported along National Highway 110 near Kurseong at Hussain Khola, further exacerbating the situation.
The police and local authorities are working to evacuate tourists from Mirik through Tindharia Road. A team from the National Disaster Response Force has been dispatched to assist in rescue operations.
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has also issued a red alert for the region and a warning of continued heavy rainfall.
Meanwhile, following heavy rains in North Bihar, the water levels of several rivers such as the Gandak, Kosi, Mahananda, Ganga, and others have suddenly risen. Floodwaters could enter many villages, raising concerns among local residents.
Today, 5.10 lakh cusecs of water was released from the Kosi Barrage. The water is spreading rapidly through the villages, prompting the authorities to take precautionary measures. Village residents are being alerted to safety through microphones.
The district administration team is closely monitoring the situation. The District Magistrate has also inspected the Kosi Barrage to assess the current conditions.
In response to the potential flood threat, a central command room has been set up in Patna to coordinate relief and monitoring efforts.
