Continuous heavy rainfall from Thursday evening through Friday morning has severely disrupted normal life across the hill and adjoining plains of North Bengal, triggering landslides, road collapses, and a major bridge failure.

According to official estimates, nearly 200 mm of rainfall was recorded across the region within 24 hours. The downpour led to a sharp rise in water levels of several rivers, including the Mahananda and Balason, resulting in widespread infrastructure damage and disruption of key road links.

One of the most significant incidents occurred at Dudhiya in Kurseong, where a temporary bridge over the Balason River was washed away around midnight due to a sudden surge in water flow. The structure, built using Hume pipes after last year’s monsoon damage to the original bridge, failed to withstand the strong current. Connectivity between Mirik, Dudhiya, and Siliguri has been almost entirely severed.

Landslides paralyse NH-110

Multiple landslides have been reported along National Highway 110, the primary route connecting Siliguri to Darjeeling. A large portion of the three-lane road between Kurseong and Siliguri has collapsed, while uprooted trees have further blocked vehicular movement.

Authorities have temporarily closed this crucial route citing safety concerns.

The disruption has also impacted tourism and heritage transport. Toy train services between Siliguri and Darjeeling have been suspended due to unsafe track and road conditions.

Restoration efforts underway

Authorities have begun clearing debris and working to restore connectivity. However, officials cautioned that the process will take time. “Restoration work will begin on a war footing once the river water level recedes,” said Public Works Department (PWD) Minister Ajay Kumar Poddar.

A special engineering team has already been deployed at the Dudhiya site.

The minister further stated that construction of a permanent bridge at Dudhiya, estimated to cost Rs 52 crore, is underway and expected to be completed by February 2027.

To manage the situation, the gates of the Mahananda Barrage at Fulbari have been opened, while authorities continue round-the-clock monitoring of the Teesta River.

Despite the widespread damage, connectivity along National Highway 10 and routes leading to Kalimpong and Sikkim remains unaffected for now, offering some relief.

With the monsoon setting in, officials have urged residents to remain cautious as the region braces for further rainfall in the coming days.

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