Mamata Sets Up Control Room as North Bengal Flood Death Toll Crosses 14

Kolkata | October 5, 2025 West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Sunday took immediate action as floods in North Bengal, particularly in Darjeeling hills, claimed over 14 lives. She held a high-level meeting at Nabanna, the state secretariat, and announced the opening of a 24/7 control room to monitor the situation. Banerjee said she would personally visit North Bengal on Monday along with the Chief Secretary to assess the damage and oversee relief operations. The floods were triggered by sudden rainfall exceeding 300 mm in just 12 hours, combined with heavy inflow of river waters from Bhutan and Sikkim into the Sankosh river. This caused widespread inundation across Darjeeling, Kalimpong, Jalpaiguri, and Alipurduar. Several roads were damaged or flooded, and two iron bridges collapsed under the water’s pressure. Thousands of residents and tourists are stranded in the affected areas. The chief minister advised tourists to remain where they are until safely rescued by the authorities. She assured that police and relief teams were providing assistance and were actively evacuating those in danger. Banerjee expressed grief over the loss of lives and extended condolences to the families of the deceased. She said immediate support would be provided to all affected families. She added that the government is closely monitoring the situation and coordinating with district officials, police, and public representatives to ensure timely relief and safety measures. The Darjeeling police issued an advisory for stranded tourists, noting that landslides had blocked some roads, affecting traffic. Authorities are working to clear the routes and have provided a control room contact number for those needing assistance. The chief minister emphasized that areas like Mirik were severely affected due to their geographical position, but every affected zone is under continuous surveillance. She reaffirmed that her team is providing instructions, monitoring updates, and coordinating efforts to reach all affected residents and tourists. With heavy rains continuing, authorities are on high alert, and all emergency measures have been activated to prevent further casualties. The government has urged residents to follow official guidance, avoid moving through flooded areas, and wait for evacuation by trained personnel. Mamata’s swift response highlights the state’s focus on disaster management and citizen safety during extreme weather events. The control room will function round-the-clock to track rainfall, water levels, and stranded populations, ensuring rapid relief and rescue operations in North Bengal. North Bengal Floods Claim 14 Lives, Mamata Launches 24/7 Control Room West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee is closely monitoring severe floods in North Bengal that have killed over 14 people. Heavy rainfall of over 300 mm in 12 hours, combined with excess river waters from Bhutan and Sikkim, has inundated Darjeeling, Kalimpong, Jalpaiguri, and Alipurduar. Roads are damaged, two bridges have collapsed, and thousands, including tourists, are stranded. Mamata has opened a 24/7 control room and advised people to stay put until safely rescued. She will visit the affected areas tomorrow to assess damage and oversee relief operations, ensuring prompt assistance to all affected residents.