What’s the latest on the North Bengal landslides?
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Synopsis
The recent landslides in North Bengal have resulted in a rising death toll of 39, as recovery efforts continue in the affected regions. Concerns grow about the potential for further casualties as rescue operations unfold. Amidst the tragedy, political tensions rise as accusations fly regarding the Chief Minister's response to the crisis. How will this impact recovery efforts?
Key Takeaways
- Death Toll: The death toll has risen to 39 due to landslides.
- Ongoing Recovery: Rescue operations are underway in remote regions.
- Political Tensions: Opposition parties criticize the Chief Minister's actions.
- Restoration Efforts: Authorities are working on restoring electricity and repairing roads.
- Weather Update: Weather conditions have stabilized, aiding relief efforts.
Kolkata, Oct 9 (NationPress) Following the recovery of additional bodies over the past day, the death toll in the hills, Terai, and Dooars regions of North Bengal, severely affected by intense rainfall and landslides, has risen to 39 as of Thursday, according to reports from the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) and district authorities in Darjeeling and Jalpaiguri.
Officials are concerned that the death toll could increase in the coming days as rescue operations persist in the remote areas.
An administrative official indicated that the official death count stood at 36 on Tuesday morning, with no additional bodies recovered that day. “However, within the last 24 hours, three more bodies were discovered, raising the total to 39. Two of the three bodies were recovered from the flow of the Jaldhaka River,” the official noted.
The identities of the bodies found in the last day have yet to be confirmed.
As weather conditions in the area stabilize, the speed of relief, rescue, and restoration efforts has notably increased in the last day. Many damaged roads have been repaired, and several well-known trekking paths in the hills, including the popular Sandakphu route, have reopened for trekkers.
According to insiders from the district administration, the primary challenge remains the full restoration of the electricity supply in the hills, with work progressing rapidly.
“While electricity has been restored in certain areas, larger sections are still affected. The state power department officials are working diligently to expedite the restoration process,” said the district administration officials.
In the meantime, a political controversy has arisen, with the opposition accusing Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee of avoiding the most affected areas during her two-day visit to North Bengal on Monday and Tuesday. The opposition claims she limited her visits to relatively unaffected locations. However, the Trinamool Congress has yet to respond to these allegations.
Point of View
It is crucial to approach the North Bengal landslide tragedy with a commitment to factual reporting and compassion. While the rising death toll is alarming, ongoing recovery efforts and the political landscape play significant roles in how the situation develops. Our focus remains on delivering accurate information, supporting affected communities, and holding authorities accountable.
NationPress
09/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What caused the landslides in North Bengal?
The landslides were triggered by heavy rainfall that affected the hills, Terai, and Dooars regions, leading to severe disruptions and casualties.
How many people have been reported dead?
As of the latest reports, the death toll has reached 39, with concerns that this number may increase as rescue operations continue.
What are the ongoing recovery efforts in the affected areas?
Recovery efforts include restoring damaged roads, reopening popular trekking routes, and restoring electricity supply to affected regions.
What is the government response to the crisis?
The government is actively engaged in rescue operations and addressing criticisms regarding the Chief Minister's presence in the most affected areas.
Are any political implications arising from this disaster?
Yes, there is a political controversy regarding the Chief Minister's response, with opposition parties accusing her of avoiding severely impacted areas during her visit.
