Heavy Rains and Snowfall Continue to Disrupt North Bengal and Sikkim; Landslide Risk Heightened

KalimNews, October 31, 2025:  Unrelenting rainfall since Thursday has triggered widespread concern across the Darjeeling hills and the rest of north Bengal, with memories of the devastating landslides and floods that struck the region earlier this month still fresh in the minds of residents. The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a red alert for the entire north Bengal region, including Darjeeling and Kalimpong, warning of the ongoing severe weather conditions.

As the rains continue, the Geological Survey of India has highlighted a high likelihood of rainfall-induced landslides across several areas, including the Darjeeling-Pulbazar, Jorebunglow-Sukhiapokhri, Kurseong, and Mirik blocks. The IMD has issued an orange alert for these regions, cautioning locals about the increasing risk.

Since Thursday midnight, recorded rainfall has reached alarming levels: 68 mm in Kalimpong, 127 mm in Kurseong, and 48 mm in Darjeeling, with no sign of respite as the downpour continued through Friday. Locals are fearful of the looming danger, recalling the fatal incidents from October 4 and 5, when landslides and floods wreaked havoc on the hills.

"It's been terrifying. Every time I look out the window and see the dark skies, I can't help but think of the Mirik tragedy," said Mukta Singh, a resident of Darjeeling. "We pray for the safety of everyone in the hills," she added, reflecting the anxiety that has gripped the region.

Fortunately, despite the intense rainfall, authorities report that there have been no major incidents or accidents since Thursday. However, a tree fell on the roof of Liza Hill Primary School in the Chungthang-Marybong constituency on Thursday night, causing some property damage but no injuries.

In addition to the rainfall, there has been significant disruption to transport and infrastructure. National Highway 10, a key route connecting Sikkim, Kalimpong, and Siliguri, was temporarily closed due to debris blocking the road at 29th Mile. It has since been reopened for traffic. Meanwhile, the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway has suspended operations between Darjeeling and Siliguri, as well as between Kurseong and Darjeeling, due to safety concerns, though the joyrides from Darjeeling to Ghoom remain operational.

In light of the red alert, several schools in the hills have declared a holiday for Friday, and the Gorkhaland Territorial Administration has ordered the closure of tourist destinations in the area until further notice. Authorities have also circulated helpline numbers via social media platforms to assist the public during this crisis.