New Delhi, Oct 5 (NationPress) President Droupadi Murmu expressed her profound sadness regarding the loss of lives in Darjeeling, West Bengal due to severe rainfall and subsequent landslides. In a statement on X, she remarked, "The tragic loss of lives attributed to heavy rainfall and landslides in Darjeeling is truly distressing. I extend my heartfelt condolences to the families affected by this tragedy. My prayers are with the ongoing rescue and relief efforts, and I wish a swift recovery to those injured."

Earlier, Prime Minister Narendra Modi also shared his grief over the extensive devastation caused by the heavy rains in Darjeeling, assuring that the Centre is ready to provide all necessary help to those impacted.

Officials reported that at least 13 individuals lost their lives in landslides across the North Bengal hills following relentless overnight rain, leading to significant disruptions. Among the casualties, nine were reported dead when an iron bridge collapsed in Mirik, while four others perished in separate landslides in the Sukhia region.

In a post on X, PM Modi stated, "I am deeply saddened by the loss of lives resulting from the bridge incident in Darjeeling. My condolences go to those mourning their loved ones. I wish a quick recovery to the injured."

"We are closely monitoring the situation in Darjeeling and nearby areas due to the recent heavy rains and landslides. We pledge to provide all possible assistance to those affected," he added.

Numerous roads have sustained damage from landslides, leading to communication disruptions. The administration noted that contact with Sikkim and Kalimpong has been entirely severed as the water level of the Teesta River rose above warning levels, resulting in the erosion of NH-10. Additionally, communication with Darjeeling city has also been compromised.

Tourists are currently stranded in various locations, and rescue operations are actively underway. The administration has temporarily closed all tourist attractions in Darjeeling. Stranded tourists in Darjeeling, Kalimpong, and surrounding areas have been instructed to remain indoors.

The Meteorological Office has predicted continued heavy rainfall in North Bengal over the next two days, which may exacerbate the situation and hinder rescue operations.

The Regional Meteorological Centre in Kolkata previously forecasted rain in North Bengal, issuing a warning for very heavy rainfall in the Darjeeling district. As anticipated, rain began on Saturday night and persisted into Sunday morning, wreaking havoc in the hill regions.