Amid the Landslides crisis caused by heavy rains in North Bengal, Governor CV Ananda Bose rushed to the affected region from Kerala to inspect the situation and coordinate relief efforts, highlighting Raj Bhavan’s active role in managing the disaster.
Bose arrived at Bagdogra airport by plane on Monday. “Now is not the time to blame. I have come to talk and meet the affected people. I will investigate everything myself and send a report to the Home Minister,” he said at the airport.
From the airport, he proceeded directly to inspect the landslide-hit areas in Mirik, one of the worst-affected regions. Raj Bhavan sources confirmed that the Governor had cut short his Puja vacation in Kerala to be present alongside the people in the disaster-hit areas.
In response to the disaster, Raj Bhavan has activated its peace room, placing it on high alert for 24-hour monitoring. A 24×7 Rapid Action Cell has also been formed to respond quickly to emergencies in flood and landslide-affected areas. The coordinator of this cell is Sandeep Singh Rajput, Officer on Special Duty. Contact details for urgent assistance are 033-22001641 and peaceroomrajbhavan@gmail.com.
A Raj Bhavan official said, “The calamity has caused extensive damage to houses, roads and bridges. Some areas have been isolated and communication systems disrupted. Several families have been displaced and temporary relief camps have been set up. The Governor has appealed to tourists to remain calm and stay in touch with authorities.”
The Raj Bhavan has also outlined long-term steps to mitigate such disasters in the future. Authorities have been advised to engage national and state agencies in rescue and relief operations, promote eco-friendly and sustainable construction in hilly areas, maintain continuous monitoring of populated regions and preserve and expand forests, avoiding urbanisation in vulnerable terrains.
A Raj Bhavan official said, “Deforestation is a curse for any hilly terrain. Sustainable planning and monitoring are essential to reduce the impact of natural disasters.”
Alongside Raj Bhavan, the state government has mobilised resources to manage the crisis. Rescue operations began in earnest on Monday morning, with the Army, SDRF, NDRF and local police working together.
Also read: JU student goes missing after North Bengal landslide
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