Darjeeling hit by heavy rains & landslides: Homes damaged, families displaced, rescue efforts underway

Incessant rains on Monday have caused multiple landslides across Darjeeling district, impacting residential areas and public infrastructure. The downpour has damaged two tourism department quarters, affecting around ten houses in Ward 17, while a wall collapsed in Ward 23, according to a TOI report.

Additionally, a tree fell onto the playground of the Salvation Army School for the Deaf, and another tree damaged a house in Toong Soong. Fortunately, no casualties have been reported so far.

Displacement and Damage in Ward 17


Darjeeling received 42.4 mm of rainfall in the last 24 hours, with Kurseong recording 47 mm, Mirik 70 mm, and Siliguri 11.4 mm.

Nitesh Gurung, councillor of Ward 17, confirmed that ten families were displaced due to landslides and are currently staying temporarily in a nearby hotel for safety.

Efforts are underway to find them rented accommodations.

“We are actively searching for safer places for the affected families,” Gurung told TOI.

Safety Concerns at Salvation Army School for the Deaf

The tree that toppled onto the playground at the Salvation Army School for the Deaf on Gandhi Road was previously identified as a hazard.

The school had requested the Gorkhaland Territorial Administration (GTA) to remove the tree, and although the cutting process began, it was halted midway.

Dinamit Lepcha, hostel matron, stressed the danger: “If this had happened during school hours, it could have caused serious injuries, especially since our students are hearing-impaired and may not have sensed the danger in time.”

While speaking with TOI, she urged the authorities to complete the removal promptly to ensure student safety.

Response and Rescue Operations Underway

Richard Lepcha, Sub-Divisional Officer (SDO) of Darjeeling, confirmed that assessment and rescue efforts are ongoing in affected areas. Relief materials are being distributed to the displaced families, and restoration work is in progress where fresh landslides have occurred.

“The administration is closely monitoring the situation and advises the public to report emergencies immediately for swift response,” Lepcha said.

Weather Forecast: More Rain Expected

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has predicted heavy to very heavy rainfall over North Bengal districts in the coming days.

GN Raha, IMD Director for Gangtok, explained, “Strong moisture incursion from the Bay of Bengal will cause light to moderate rainfall over several districts of North Bengal over the next few days.”

Residents have been warned to remain cautious as adverse weather conditions persist.