Landslides in West Bengal's Darjeeling Hills Kill Over 20
At least 20 people were killed after incessant heavy rainfall triggered massive landslides across the Darjeeling and Mirik hills. The disaster swept away numerous homes, severed road links, and left hundreds of tourists stranded. The worst-affected areas include Mirik, where at least 11 fatalities were reported. The National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) is conducting rescue operations amid challenging conditions. The India Meteorological Department has issued a red alert, warning of more potential landslides in the region.
Unpacked:
The region’s geology consists of soft rocks like phyllite, schists, and gneiss, making it highly susceptible to landslides. Heavy rainfall, steep slopes, and numerous rivers also contribute to frequent landslide events.
Yes, major landslides have occurred in 1993, 2009, 2011, and a particularly severe episode in 2015, each causing significant fatalities, property loss, and disruptions.
Rescue operations are hampered by blocked roads, ongoing rainfall, unstable slopes, and damaged infrastructure, making it difficult to reach affected people quickly and safely.
Authorities have implemented early warning systems, slope stabilization, afforestation, and restrictions on construction in vulnerable areas, but rapid urbanization and deforestation remain ongoing challenges.