Widespread Disruption from Cyclone Remnants: FM Visit Cancelled, Heavy Snowfall in Sikkim

AGENCIES, SILIGURI, OCTOBER 31, 2025 : In addition to the heavy rainfall in Darjeeling, moderate to heavy downpours have been affecting the rest of north Bengal, including Sikkim, Nepal, and Bhutan. This weather disturbance is linked to a low-pressure system left behind by the remnants of Cyclone Montha. The inclement weather has led to significant disruption of travel plans, including that of Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, who had intended to visit Bhutan.

Sitharaman, who had arrived in Siliguri on Thursday, was forced to return to Delhi from Bagdogra Airport on Friday morning due to adverse flying conditions and poor visibility. During her brief stopover at the airport, she was greeted by Sonam Lama, Sikkim's Minister for Public Health Engineering, Water Resources, and Ecclesiastical Affairs. Prior to this, Sitharaman had met with Major General Vetsop Namgyel, the Ambassador of Bhutan to India, in New Delhi on Thursday.

While heavy rainfall continues to affect the plains, the higher reaches of Sikkim, including Nathu La along the Indo-China border, have started receiving significant snowfall. Tourist destinations like Tsongmo (Chhanggu) Lake and Yumthang Valley have also seen heavy snow, which has disrupted travel plans for tourists. Snow clouds have been spotted over Nepal's Annapurna Base Camp area, leading to concerns among trekkers.

The Meteorological Department has issued an Orange Alert for the region, predicting further rainfall of up to 20 cm in parts of north Bengal and Sikkim through Saturday. The continuous rainfall has placed Darjeeling and Jalpaiguri districts on high alert, especially given the heavy downpours in the past few days that have raised river levels dangerously.

In addition to the landslide warnings, authorities have deployed Public Works Department (PWD) engineers to monitor the situation along the temporary bridge over the Balason River, which connects Mirik with Siliguri. The bridge continues to function but remains under close scrutiny due to the rising water levels.

Authorities Urge Caution and Readiness Amid Heavy Rains

Officials in Darjeeling have forecast that light to moderate rain or thundershowers are likely to occur across several areas in Jalpaiguri, Alipurduar, and Cooch Behar on November 1, while the forecast for October 31 had already predicted up to 20 cm of rainfall. For November 2, light rain or thundershowers are expected at one or two locations.

With landslide risks still high in vulnerable areas like Pulbazar, Jorebunglow, Sukhiapokhri, Kurseong, and Mirik, residents are urged to remain vigilant and avoid high-risk zones. Tragically, two people were killed and several others injured when a vehicle skidded off a rain-slicked road in Darjeeling on Thursday evening.

Farmers in the region, especially in Jalpaiguri, are struggling with widespread water stagnation, which has affected their ability to harvest crops like paddy and prepare fields for upcoming potato cultivation.

As of Friday evening, the weather in the region remained cloudy with intermittent rain expected through the night and into Saturday, keeping travel conditions hazardous. Authorities have advised travelers to avoid non-essential journeys to Darjeeling and Sikkim, as visibility is expected to decrease sharply during heavy rain. Those already on the roads have been told to allow extra travel time and drive slowly, particularly on winding or steep sections, while staying alert for landslides or roadblocks.

In Jalpaiguri district, the rise in water levels across various rivers has kept the administration on high alert, although the levels have not yet reached the danger mark. Public announcements are being made to guide residents, and vulnerable areas have been evacuated to safer locations. Authorities are also prepared with shelters, food, and essential supplies in relief camps, ensuring residents have access to the support they need during this challenging time.