The Darjeeling bridge collapse has shaken the hills of North Bengal, leaving at least 18 people dead and several others trapped. Relentless overnight rainfall triggered landslides, washed away roads, and damaged homes, leaving hundreds of tourists stranded. This tragic incident highlights the vulnerability of hill infrastructure during extreme weather events.
Impact of Darjeeling Bridge Collapse
The Dudhia bridge collapse over the Balason River cut off a crucial link between Siliguri and Darjeeling. Authorities immediately restricted movement on SH-12 and NH-10, while rescue teams rushed to the scene. Eyewitnesses reported that gushing waters and landslides caused severe damage to nearby homes and infrastructure.
Heavy rainfall also turned low-lying areas into flood zones and destroyed important link routes. Local authorities cordoned off affected zones, urging residents and tourists to avoid travel in landslide-prone areas.
Landslides and Flooding Across Darjeeling and Jalpaiguri
Darjeeling and Jalpaiguri districts experienced continuous rainfall, leading to multiple landslides and blocked roads. Traffic movement was severely disrupted on major highways, making rescue and relief operations difficult. Officials confirmed that NH-10 and SH-12 remained partially closed, while smaller rural roads were submerged or damaged.
Tourists trapped in affected areas were advised to contact the Darjeeling Control Room at +91 91478 89078. Rescue teams are using all available routes, including Tindharia Road, for evacuation.
Rescue Efforts by NDRF and Local Teams
The National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) and local teams from Darjeeling, Siliguri, Alipurduar, Malda, and Kolkata are actively involved in the Darjeeling rescue operation. Units are working tirelessly to locate missing persons, assist stranded villagers, and provide medical aid to the injured.
NDRF DIG Mohsen Shahedi stated:
“Our teams are carrying out intensive rescue and relief operations, especially in Mirik and Sukhia Pokhari, to ensure the safety of stranded residents and tourists.”
National Leaders Express Condolences
President Droupadi Murmu expressed grief over the Darjeeling disaster news, saying:
“The tragic loss of lives due to heavy rain and landslides in Darjeeling is distressing. My condolences to the bereaved families.”
Prime Minister Narendra Modi tweeted:
“Deeply pained by the Darjeeling bridge collapse. Condolences to those who lost their loved ones. Rescue operations are ongoing.”
Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee instructed state agencies to remain on high alert and ensure rapid relief distribution in the worst-hit zones.
Ongoing Danger and Safety Measures
Authorities have warned residents and tourists to stay indoors and avoid landslide-prone areas. Heavy rainfall alerts remain active, and relief camps have been established for displaced families. Officials fear additional landslides if rain continues, and clearing blocked roads remains a priority.
Climate Alarm in Himalayan Region
Experts say the Darjeeling bridge collapse underscores the impact of climate change on Himalayan states. Uncontrolled construction, deforestation, and shifting rainfall patterns have increased the vulnerability of fragile hill areas. Environmentalists are calling for sustainable development and better disaster preparedness to prevent future tragedies.
The Road Ahead
As rescue operations continue, authorities focus on restoring connectivity and rebuilding damaged infrastructure. Ensuring resilient roads, bridges, and emergency services will be key to safeguarding residents and tourists in Darjeeling and surrounding districts.
FAQ – Darjeeling Bridge Collapse
Q1: What happened in the Darjeeling bridge collapse?
A: The Darjeeling bridge collapse occurred due to heavy rainfall and landslides in North Bengal. The Dudhia bridge over the Balason River collapsed, killing at least 18 people and leaving several stranded.
Q2: How many people were affected by the Darjeeling bridge collapse?
A: At least 18 people lost their lives, including nine in the bridge mishap, and dozens were stranded in nearby areas due to blocked roads and landslides.
Q3: Which areas were most affected by the Darjeeling bridge collapse and landslides?
A: The worst-hit areas include Dudhia Bridge, Mirik, Sukhia Pokhari, and surrounding regions in Darjeeling and Jalpaiguri districts. Major highways like NH-10 and SH-12 were also severely disrupted.
Q4: What rescue efforts are underway after the Darjeeling bridge collapse?
A: The National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), along with local teams from Darjeeling, Siliguri, and Alipurduar, is conducting rescue operations. Evacuations are underway using available routes, and medical aid is being provided to the injured.
Q5: What precautions should residents and tourists take after the Darjeeling bridge collapse?
A: Authorities have advised residents and tourists to stay indoors, avoid landslide-prone areas, and follow updates from local authorities. Relief camps have been established for displaced families.
Q6: Why did the Darjeeling bridge collapse happen?
A: Experts say the Darjeeling bridge collapse was triggered by extreme rainfall, landslides, and fragile infrastructure. Climate change, deforestation, and unchecked construction in hilly areas have increased vulnerability.