Relief operations are currently in full swing in Mirik, a subdivision heavily impacted by landslides that struck the Darjeeling hills over the weekend. The landslides, which occurred late Saturday night through early Sunday morning, have prompted significant recovery efforts and an urgent need to restore road access in the affected area. Despite the devastation, National Highway 10, the primary route connecting Sikkim and Kalimpong, has remained open. Routes from Darjeeling to Siliguri via Pankhabari and Tindharia are also still accessible.
Anit Thapa, chief executive of the Gorkhaland Territorial Administration (GTA), along with Darjeeling MP Raju Bista, visited various affected locations in Mirik to assess the situation. Thapa directed GTA members to identify land for permanent rehabilitation of families whose homes have been destroyed. Temporary relief camps have been established in community halls, including the Mirik Bazar Community Hall, providing shelter for around twenty-four displaced families.
In a statement to reporters, Thapa highlighted the frequency of natural disasters during the rainy season in the hills, expressing concern over the loss of lives this time. He mentioned a virtual meeting held with West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee to discuss the landslides and indicated that assessments of the damage were ongoing, with a formal report expected once evaluations are complete.
He noted that NH 10 and the Pankhabari route are currently operational, with efforts underway to reopen Rohini Road quickly. Plans are also in motion to erect a temporary Bailey bridge to connect Mirik with Siliguri, following the collapse of an iron bridge at Dudhia. Due to this bridge damage, the Mirik-Siliguri route remains closed, requiring commuters to use routes via Ghum. Local reports suggest that work is underway for a permanent bridge adjacent to the temporary structure.
Additionally, Chief Minister Banerjee has announced a compensation of Rs 5 lakh for each victim who lost their life in the landslides. On Saturday night, she visited various locations in North Bengal affected by severe rainfall and is scheduled to visit Mirik on Tuesday, according to sources.
MP Raju Bista, after inspecting the landslide-affected sites and relief centers, stated, “Our immediate priority is to provide relief, food, shelter, and medical care. Beyond that, we must focus on long-term rehabilitation to help families rebuild their lives.” Both Thapa and Bista stressed the need for collective efforts to support those impacted.
Victims like Priya Gurung shared their harrowing experiences; she recounted how the landslide around 4 a.m. on Sunday buried much of her home, forcing her family to rescue her parents through a ventilator. Currently, the six-member Gurung family is residing in a relief center due to the severe risk in their area.
Mirik Municipality Chairman L.B. Rai indicated that relief camps have been set up for those whose houses were damaged, emphasizing that they are providing both food and shelter. Current reports indicate that over 100 homes have been completely destroyed, with many more sustaining partial damage.
Original Source: https://www.sikkimexpress.com/news-details/relief-efforts-in-full-swing-at-mirik-landslide-affected-areas
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