Multiple Landslides in Kalimpong as Heavy Rains Wreak Havoc in Bengal
NH10 has been affected by multiple landslides, and traffic on the highway is currently closed
Kalimpong: Continuous rainfall in Kalimpong on Saturday led to multiple landslides across the district. However, authorities have confirmed that the rains have now subsided and no major damage or casualties have been reported so far.
According to Kalimpong Superintendent of Police (SP) Shrihari Pandey, rainfall across the district has eased. NH10 has been affected by multiple landslides, and traffic on the highway is currently closed. NH717A, an alternative highway to Sikkim, has also been impacted by landslides near the Reshi border, disrupting traffic movement to Sikkim.
Water levels breached NH10 at several low-lying locations, including Ravijhora and 29th Mile. Despite these disruptions, officials stated there has been no major loss of crops, property damage, or other mishaps due to the rains.
The National Highways & Infrastructure Development Corporation Limited (NHIDCL) is working closely with the district administration and police to clear debris and restore road connectivity on both affected highways as soon as possible, the Kalimpong SP said.
Authorities confirmed that there is no need for public evacuation or the operation of temporary shelters at this stage. Detailed situation reports have been sought from all administrative blocks, and disaster management teams, including Civil Defence Volunteers (CDVs), remain on high alert in vulnerable areas.
West Bengal's Birbhum district witnessed rain on Friday morning. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has predicted heavy to very heavy rainfall (7–20 cm) at one or two places over the district. Due to a deep depression over the Bay of Bengal, the IMD has issued a heavy rain alert for Odisha and West Bengal.
The IMD has predicted heavy rainfall for several districts in West Bengal till October 6. Several parts of the state also witnessed rain on Thursday.