Torrential rainfall across North Bengal has caused widespread disruption, with the temporary Dudhia Bridge over the Balason River being washed away and several landslides affecting road connectivity in the Darjeeling hills. The collapse of the bridge has snapped the crucial Siliguri–Mirik road link, leaving commuters stranded and forcing authorities to divert traffic through alternative routes.
Officials said heavy overnight rain in Darjeeling, Kurseong and Mirik led to a sharp rise in the Balason River's water level. The powerful current swept away a portion of the temporary bridge, which had been constructed after the original bridge was destroyed during the devastating monsoon floods of 2025.
The impact of the rain has extended beyond Dudhia. Landslides have been reported in several parts of Darjeeling district, including along National Highway-110 near Tindharia and Mahanadi, disrupting road communication and damaging sections of the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway track. Authorities have also suspended some toy train services due to safety concerns.
The state government has deployed Public Works Department officials to the affected area and initiated restoration plans. Public Works and Public Health Engineering Minister Ajay Kumar Poddar said repair work would begin immediately after river levels recede. He also confirmed that construction of a permanent bridge at Dudhia, estimated to cost around ₹52 crore, is progressing and is expected to be completed by early 2027.
Meanwhile, alerts have been issued across Darjeeling, Kalimpong, Jalpaiguri, Alipurduar and Cooch Behar districts as rivers including the Teesta, Torsa and Jaldhaka continue to swell following continuous rainfall in the hills and adjoining areas of Sikkim. Disaster management teams remain on high alert as forecasts indicate more heavy rain in the coming days.
The latest damage has once again highlighted the vulnerability of North Bengal's infrastructure during the monsoon season, with authorities closely monitoring the situation to prevent further disruption and ensure public safety.
