Continuous monsoon rain across north Bengal, Sikkim and Bhutan has pushed up water levels in several rivers, triggering flash floods in parts of the Dooars and causing concern among the administration and local residents.
According to weather forecasts, heavy rainfall is likely to continue over the next few days in Darjeeling, Kalimpong, Jalpaiguri, Siliguri, the Dooars, Sikkim and adjoining Bhutan. Water flowing down from the hills has increased the level of rivers, including the Torsa and several other tributaries. In some areas of the Dooars, rivers carrying heavy silt have overflowed, leading to flash floods and damage to low-lying areas.
The administration has advised people living near rivers to remain alert and avoid entering swollen streams. Travellers have also been asked to check road conditions before starting their journey.
Meanwhile, vehicular movement on NH-10 remains suspended for restoration work near Bardang (20th Mile). The National Highways and Infrastructure Development Corporation Limited (NHIDCL) has closed the affected stretch for three days to carry out repair and restoration work. Motorists travelling between Siliguri and Sikkim have been advised to follow official traffic updates.
Sporadic minor landslides have also been reported from different hill locations due to continuous rainfall. In Sikkim’s Pakyong district, senior officials recently inspected ongoing road infrastructure projects and stressed the need for timely execution of restoration work.
Despite the widespread rain and localised disruption, no major landslide or loss of life has been reported so far. However, authorities continue to monitor the situation closely as more heavy rain is expected, and people have been urged to remain cautious until weather conditions improve.