Committed to providing all possible assistance: PM Modi on torrential Darjeeling rain

New Delhi– Prime Minister **Narendra Modi** on Sunday expressed deep sorrow over the widespread devastation caused by **torrential rainfall in West Bengal’s Darjeeling** and assured that the **Centre is fully committed to extending all possible assistance** to those affected.

At least **13 people have lost their lives** in landslides triggered by continuous overnight rain in the **North Bengal hills**, officials said. Among them, **nine people died when an iron bridge collapsed** in **Mirik** in Darjeeling district, while **four others perished in separate landslides** in the **Sukhia area**.

In a post on **X (formerly Twitter)**, PM Modi said,

> “Deeply pained by the loss of lives due to a bridge mishap in Darjeeling. Condolences to those who have lost their loved ones. May the injured recover soon.”

He added,

> “The situation in Darjeeling and surrounding areas is being closely monitored in the wake of heavy rains and landslides. We are committed to providing all possible assistance to those affected.”

Officials reported **extensive damage to roads and communication lines**, with connectivity to **Sikkim and Kalimpong** completely severed after the **Teesta River** rose above the danger mark, **washing away sections of NH-10**. Even communication links to **Darjeeling city** have been disrupted.

Authorities said **tourists remain stranded** in several popular hill destinations, as **rescue and relief operations** continue in full swing.

“All tourist points in Darjeeling have been closed,” an official said, adding that tourists in **Darjeeling, Kalimpong**, and nearby areas have been advised **not to leave their hotels** until further notice.

The **Meteorological Department** has forecast **more heavy rain across North Bengal** over the next two days, warning that the situation could **further deteriorate** and hamper ongoing **rescue operations**.

The **Regional Meteorological Centre in Alipore, Kolkata**, had earlier issued a **warning of very heavy rainfall** for the Darjeeling district. As predicted, **relentless downpours since Saturday night** have wreaked havoc across the hilly terrain, triggering **landslides and flash floods**.

With inputs from IANS