Incessant rainfall in West Bengal's Darjeeling hills triggered a landslide resulting in the loss of 30 lives. Darjeeling Superintendent of Police Amit Javalgi says 20 bodies were recovered from Mirik, 6 from Kalimpong and 1 each Sukhiapokhri and Gorubathan areas of the district. “So far we have recovered 28 bodies. Several others are still missing.”
The landslides have badly affected National Highways N0 31 and 10, cutting off the link with neighbouring state Sikkim. Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has announced a compensation of Rs 400,000 to the kin of the deceased and Rs 125,000 each to those injured in the incident.
“Money can never compensate the loss of life. However, the state government has decided to pay Rs 400,000 to the kin of those who have died and Rs 125,000 to the injured. The government will provide all kinds of assistance for the rehabilitation of those affected by the calamity,” Banerjee said. “We are constantly monitoring the situation. The home secretary has already reached there. I am rushing to the area.” The Sashastra Seema Bal and disaster management personnel are currently engaged in relief and rescue operations, the army has also been called in for help.
