West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee visited the landslide-hit areas of Mirik on Tuesday to meet the families affected by devastating rains and flash floods, which claimed several lives across North Bengal.
Amid intermittent drizzle, Banerjee travelled by road to Mirik in Darjeeling district, where she interacted with survivors and local residents, who recounted their harrowing experiences since the calamity struck. She handed over compensation cheques to the next of kin of those killed and assured them of all possible government assistance.
"The state government stands beside the people of the hills in this hour of grief. We have announced compensation for the bereaved families," the Chief Minister said after distributing the cheques. Officials confirmed that the government has sanctioned ₹5 lakh each to the families of those killed in the landslides. Compensation cheques were also handed over to those whose houses were damaged.
Banerjee reviewed the ongoing relief and rehabilitation efforts being carried out by the district administration, which includes the distribution of essential materials such as food, tarpaulin, and blankets in the affected areas.
The Chief Minister was accompanied by senior ministers and officials, including CS Manoj Pant. Mamata held a meeting with authorities at the local level. She assessed the extent of the damage and directed to expedite the restoration work in the region.
At least 30 people were killed and several others injured in the recent series of landslides and flash floods, which also severely disrupted road and rail communication, leaving hundreds of tourists stranded. The Chief Minister is expected to visit other affected areas in Darjeeling district later today before returning to Siliguri.
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