President Droupadi Murmu has expressed anguish over the deaths caused by torrential rain and landslides in West Bengal’s Darjeeling hills, calling the tragedy “distressing” and extending condolences to grieving families.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi also conveyed his sorrow, noting the calamity had struck as a bridge collapsed during the severe weather. “Deeply pained by the loss of lives due to a bridge mishap in Darjeeling. Condolences to those who have lost their loved ones. May the injured recover soon,” he posted on X.
Modi said the situation in Darjeeling and adjoining areas was being “closely monitored” following incessant rainfall and multiple landslides. “We are committed to providing all possible assistance to those affected,” he added.
The tragedy unfolded on Saturday when relentless downpours unleashed a series of landslides across the hill district, sweeping away homes, damaging arterial roads and cutting off villages. Officials confirmed at least 14 deaths, with several others reported missing.
Also read: 14 dead as bridge collapse and landslides cut off roads in Darjeeling
Posting on X, the President observed: “The tragic loss of lives due to heavy rain and landslides in Darjeeling, West Bengal, is distressing. I express my heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families. I pray for the success of rescue and relief operations and wish a speedy recovery to those injured.”
Darjeeling, celebrated as a world-renowned hill station, remains acutely vulnerable to the destructive force of the monsoon. Landslides have become an enduring hazard, compounded by fragile terrain, deforestation and unchecked development.
Rescue teams on Sunday were engaged in clearing debris, reopening blocked roads and supplying aid to remote hamlets. Local authorities said relief operations would continue as damage assessments expanded across the affected areas.
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