New Delhi, 5 October (IANS) Vice President CP Radhakrishnan on Sunday followed the loss of life in Darjeeling after heavy rains and landslides.
In a post on X, the Vice President said: “After heavy rains and landslides in Darjeeling, suffering from the sad loss of life in the bridge accident. Heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families. Prayers for early recovery of the injured.”
President Draupadi Murmu also expressed grief over the loss of life in the natural disaster.
In a post on X, President Murmu said, “The tragic loss of life due to heavy rains and landslides in Darjeeling of West Bengal is disturbing. I express my heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families. I pray for the success of rescue and relief work and fix those injured quickly.”
Prime Minister Narendra Modi also expressed grief and assured the affected people to assist the Center.
Officials said on Sunday that at least 13 people have died in landslides in the hills of North Bengal, after overnight rain, causing extensive severe disruption. Among them, nine killed when an iron bridge fell in Mirik in Darjeeling district. Four people died in Sukhia region in separate landslides.
In a post on X, PM Modi said, “Darjeeling caused deep pain due to loss of life. There is condolences to those who have lost their loved ones. May the injured may recover soon.”
He said, “The situation in Darjeeling and surrounding areas is closely monitored in view of heavy rains and landslides. We are committed to provide all possible assistance to the affected people,” he said.
The administration has closed all tourist points in Darjeeling. Tourists trapped in Darjeeling, Kalimpong and other areas have been asked not to go out of their hotels.
The meteorological office has estimated heavy rainfall in North Bengal for the next two days, which is likely to cause inconvenience to deteriorate and rescue operations.
The Regional Meteorological Center in Alipore, Kolkata issued a warning of very heavy rainfall in Darjeeling district. The rain started on Saturday night and continued till Sunday morning, causing havoc in the hills.
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