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, leading to a sharp rise in water levels of several rivers, including the Mahananda and Balason. The intense downpour has resulted in widespread damage to infrastructure and complete 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.
In addition, multiple landslides have been reported along National Highway 110, the primary route connecting Siliguri to Darjeeling. A large section of the three-lane road between Kurseong and Siliguri has collapsed, while uprooted trees have further blocked vehicular movement. The administration has temporarily closed this crucial route, citing safety concerns.
The disruption has also impacted tourism and heritage transport, with toy train services between Siliguri and Darjeeling suspended due to unsafe track and road conditions.
Authorities have initiated efforts to clear debris and restore connectivity, but officials have 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, adding that a special engineering team has already been deployed at the Dudhiya site.
He further stated that construction of a permanent bridge at Dudhiya, estimated to cost Rs 52 crore, is progressing and is expected to be completed by February 2027.
Meanwhile, the situation remains under close watch. The gates of the Mahananda Barrage at Fulbari have been opened to manage rising water levels, and authorities are monitoring the Teesta River round the clock.
Despite the widespread disruptions, connectivity along National Highway 10 and routes leading to Kalimpong and Sikkim remains normal for now, providing 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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