Heavy rains trigger major damage in North Bengal, Dudhiya Bridge washed away: CM Adhikari
Howrah, June 20
West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari said that heavy rainfall in North Bengal has caused extensive damage, including the washing away of the Dudhiya Bridge, while authorities continue to monitor the flood-like situation in the region.
Addressing a press conference on Friday, Adhikari said heavy rain had been lashing parts of North Bengal since Thursday night, affecting several areas, including Siliguri and Darjeeling.
"Heavy rain has been lashing North Bengal since last night. Siliguri and Darjeeling have received heavy rainfall. There has been extensive damage, and a bridge has been completely washed away. The river situation is out of control. The Siliguri Municipal Corporation has received reports of damage, and landslides have also occurred in some places," he said.
The Chief Minister said the Dudhiya Bridge had been completely washed away, severely affecting connectivity in the area.
"The Dudhiya Bridge has been completely washed away. Traffic has been diverted. It will take 4-5 days to restore connectivity," he said.
Adhikari added that the state government had approved both financial and administrative requirements for immediate restoration work.
"We have granted both financial and cost approvals simultaneously. The work will be completed in 4-5 days," he said.
The Chief Minister also confirmed one rain-related death and announced financial assistance for the bereaved family.
"One person has died due to the rains that have been continuing since last night. The government will provide an ex-gratia payment of Rs 4 lakh to the family," he said.
He further said, "Our Darjeeling MP, Raju Bista, has inspected the site. We are monitoring the situation, and all necessary steps will be taken."
Meanwhile, Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari on Friday presented Andhra Pradesh Minister for Information Technology and TDP National General Secretary, Nara Lokesh, with two significant cultural artefacts, including the Sacred Shad-bhuja-murti Patachitra and the Historic Sholapith Boat, during a high-profile meeting in Kolkata.
— ANI
Reader Comments
CM Adhikari is doing a good job by approving funds immediately. But we need better infrastructure planning for these flood-prone areas. Every year we see similar damage during monsoon. ☔
Really sad to hear about the death. Rs 4 lakh ex-gratia is good but nothing can replace a loved one. My prayers to the family. Hope the administration acts fast to prevent more casualties. 🙏
The comparison of giving artefacts to Andhra minister while North Bengal is flooded is interesting timing. But let's focus on relief efforts now. Stay safe everyone in Siliguri and Darjeeling! 🚨
Typical Bengal monsoon chaos. We need better drainage systems and early warning mechanisms. The Dudhiya Bridge collapse shows how climate change is affecting our infrastructure. Abhi kuch karna padega!
I'm from Siliguri and this is really scary. The rain hasn't stopped since last night. Already many areas are waterlogged. Hope the government deploys NDRF teams soon. Stay safe everyone! 💙
CM Adhikari should personally visit the affected areas rather than just press conferences. Seeing is believing, and the people need reassurance. Hope the 4-5 day deadline for bridge repair
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