Under the sustained influence of a Western Disturbance, vast mountainous regions of Darjeeling and neighbouring Sikkim have been blanketed in fresh snowfall, creating a picturesque yet increasingly hazardous situation across the hills.
Continuous snowfall over the past few days has transformed the region into a winter landscape, with several parts of Sikkim witnessing heavy accumulation on Friday. By Saturday morning, conditions intensified further at Sandakphu—the highest peak in Darjeeling—where houses, vehicles, and roads were buried under thick layers of snow.
Amid the scenic beauty, a tragic incident has raised serious concerns over tourist safety. A 39-year-old tourist from Chowringhee in Kolkata, identified as Imran Ali, was found dead during his visit to the hills.
According to reports, Imran had travelled with his friend, Rohit Shekhar, arriving in Siliguri on March 24 before staying overnight at Manebhanjan. On March 26, the duo trekked to Tonglu, planning to stay there for two days before proceeding to Sandakphu.
However, on Saturday morning, Imran failed to wake up, prompting concern. He was later found unconscious and, with the help of locals, rushed to the Sukhiapokhri Health Centre, where doctors declared him dead. Administrative sources confirmed that arrangements are underway to transport the body back to Kolkata.
The incident has sparked fresh concerns regarding the safety of tourists visiting high-altitude destinations during extreme weather conditions.
Meteorologists attribute the current situation to an active Western Disturbance, further intensified by an anti-cyclonic circulation over the Bay of Bengal. This combination has driven moisture into the mountainous regions of North Bengal, increasing the likelihood of continued snowfall over the next three to four days.
Experts from the University of North Bengal noted that while snowfall in higher altitudes is not unusual, the intensity observed this time is relatively higher, warranting increased caution.
The Darjeeling district administration has issued advisories for tourists, urging those travelling to Sandakphu to remain vigilant. Individuals with underlying health conditions have been specifically advised to avoid visiting the region for now. Authorities have also stressed the need for prompt snow clearance on roads to prevent disruptions.
Tourist guides, members of the Land Rover Association, and administrative personnel have been directed to stay on high alert. The District Magistrate stated that the situation is being closely monitored, with all departments prepared to respond as needed.
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