Heavy rainfall in the upper catchment areas of North Bengal, Sikkim and adjoining Bhutan has triggered a flood-like situation in parts of Jalpaiguri and Alipurduar districts, prompting authorities to issue alerts and step up precautionary measures.
Administrative announcements are being made through public address systems, particularly in the Malbazar block, urging residents living in vulnerable riverbank areas to move to safer locations as water levels continue to rise in several rivers.
The incessant rain over the past few days has already damaged key infrastructure in the region. After the collapse of the Dudhia bridge earlier, another bridge at Gulma was washed away. A small bridge over the Hollong river, frequently used by tourists, also collapsed on Sunday due to strong currents and swelling waters.
Since Monday morning, large volumes of water from the hills of Sikkim and Bhutan have been flowing downstream, leading to a sharp rise in river levels across the Dooars. The Teesta river has also witnessed a significant increase in water discharge, raising concerns among residents and officials alike.
District authorities have intensified monitoring and are advising people to avoid entering rivers for fishing, sand and stone extraction, or any other activity. Residents in low-lying and erosion-prone areas have been asked to remain alert and shift to safer places if necessary.
Officials said the situation is being closely watched and emergency response teams are on standby as rainfall continues across the region.