Deadly Landslides Strike Darjeeling as Bhutan Dam Overflow Worsens Flood Threat
Heavy rains, landslides, and dam overflow from Bhutan have killed dozens and displaced thousands in Darjeeling, underscoring the risks of extreme weather in the eastern Himalayas.
Heavy rainfall and dam overflow from Bhutan have triggered fatal landslides and flood warnings in the Darjeeling region of West Bengal. At least 28 people have lost their lives as intense rainfall over several days caused widespread slope failures, washed away homes, blocked roads, and forced evacuations. The effects have been compounded by overflow from a Bhutanese dam, which increased river discharge and threatened low-lying villages in the area.
Emergency services are working round-the-clock to rescue those trapped, restore access, and deliver aid to isolated communities. Railway lines and key highways have been disrupted, with authorities prioritising safe passage and maintaining critical infrastructure. State officials have urged residents in flood-prone zones to relocate to government shelters, as rainfall forecasts remain high.
The disaster spotlights the region’s vulnerability to climate-driven events. Increasing variability in monsoon intensity, land-use change, and ageing infrastructure all contribute to heightened disaster risk. Coordination between Indian and Bhutanese authorities is ongoing to monitor dam releases and river flows, aiming to minimise future damage. The region’s experience this season is expected to inform future planning and early warning system upgrades for transboundary river basins in the eastern Himalayas.
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