Teesta River Erosion Victims Begin New Life in ‘Teesta Pally’; Rehabilitation Efforts Underway in Jalpaiguri

KalimNews | May 26, 2025 | Siliguri : In a significant move towards rehabilitation, 131 families displaced by the devastating course change of the Teesta River in October 2024 are beginning to rebuild their lives in a newly established village named Teesta Pally, located in the Majuha area of Dabgram-I Gram Panchayat, Jalpaiguri district near Mahananda River in between Salugara and Bengal safari.

These families, who once lived in the villages of Laltong and Chamakdangi, found their homes submerged by floodwaters when the Teesta River dramatically shifted its course. Chamakdangi, a small hamlet situated along the riverbanks, is located just 8 km from Sevoke—the gateway to the Dooars, Sikkim, and Kalimpong—and is 4 km from 9th Mile, which lies on the Siliguri to Sevoke Bazar Road. Laltong, located near Salugara, is approximately 7 km from Sevoke Road, close to Bengal Safari and leading toward Sevoke Bazar. Both villages were nestled within the Mahananda Wildlife Sanctuary, known for its lush greenery and proximity to rich biodiversity.

Following the displacement, these villagers were forced to take shelter in forested highlands, where they faced risks from wildlife, including elephants. In response, Siliguri Mayor Goutam Deb, who is also a former MLA of the area, visited the new resettlement site on Monday to ensure the rehabilitation arrangements were progressing smoothly. Mayor Deb had earlier raised the issue with Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, urging her intervention for a comprehensive rehabilitation plan for the affected families.

The state government quickly responded and identified Majuha as a suitable site for the resettlement, where 131 families have now been allotted approximately three decimals of land each under the Banglar Bari housing project. During her recent visit to Siliguri, Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee symbolically handed over land titles (patta) to a few beneficiaries. Geo-tagging of the plots has been completed to ensure transparency and accurate allocation.

Mayor Deb, during his visit, emphasized the compassionate approach of the Chief Minister and explained the significance of the initiative. “The families had faced immense hardship due to the floodwaters. Under the Chief Minister’s guidance, we’ve moved them to Majuha, where we aim to develop a model village—Teesta Pally,” Deb stated. He assured the families that the first installment of financial assistance would be credited to their accounts by June.

The affected residents, many of whom had been living in temporary shelters, have already started constructing new homes with loans from various sources. "Though we are still managing with temporary tin shelters, we now have access to water, electricity, and essential facilities. Even if the process takes time, we are grateful for this new beginning," said Nisha Gurung, one of the residents of Teesta Pally.

The local panchayat and district officials, who accompanied Mayor Deb during his inspection, reiterated their commitment to ensuring that the rehabilitation process continues smoothly, with all essential amenities in place. With the support of the state government and the collective efforts of the community, Teesta Pally is poised to become a symbol of resilience and hope, providing a safe and prosperous future for its displaced residents.