Death toll rises in Darjeeling landslide; red alert issued
Darjeeling, West Bengal – At least nine people were killed and two others are missing in a devastating landslide triggered by persistent heavy rains in the Darjeeling hills on Sunday, October 5, 2025. According to unconfirmed reports from officials, the death toll could rise to 17, as rescue operations continue in extremely challenging conditions.
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a red alert for sub-Himalayan West Bengal, including Darjeeling and Kalimpong districts, warning of “extremely heavy rainfall” and a high probability of further landslides until October 6.
Widespread devastation and rescue efforts
The landslide has caused extensive damage, sweeping away houses, burying vehicles, and cutting off road connectivity to many remote villages. Reports of casualties have been received from several locations, including Sarasali, Jasbirgaon, Mirik Basti, Dhar Village (Mechi), and Mirik Lake areas. A glimmer of hope is that in Dhar Village, where a landslide destroyed several houses, at least four people were successfully rescued from the debris.
A massive rescue and relief operation is underway with the help of teams from the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), local police, and the district administration. However, incessant rain has made the hilly terrain treacherous and slippery, severely hampering efforts. Officials on the ground reported that operating earth-moving equipment on the unstable slopes is proving “extremely difficult.”
According to Richard Lepcha, Sub-Divisional Officer of Darjeeling, the priority is to locate the two people missing near Mirik Lake and restore communication with the cut-off areas.
Evacuation and Relief Measures
As a precautionary measure, authorities have evacuated several families from high-risk areas of Mirik, including Bishnulal Village and Jasbir Village. Temporary relief camps have been set up in collaboration with local NGOs to provide shelter and assistance to those displaced by the disaster.
Officials are assessing the full extent of the damage, while rescue teams have worked overnight to search for survivors and clear debris from key roads. Soil saturated conditions remain a serious concern, so officials have urged residents to remain vigilant.
Source: The Hindu