Multiple landslides In Darjeeling And Kalimpong:
Heavy rainfall triggered multiple landslides in Darjeeling and Kalimpong, killing at least 14 people and destroying vital infrastructure including the Dudhia bridge and Teesta Bazaar link road.A landslide is the downward movement of rock, debris, or soil along a slope under gravity. It occurs when the shear stress exceeds the shear strength of slope materials, often due to heavy rainfall, earthquakes, deforestation, or human activity. These events disrupt slope stability and can destroy roads, settlements, and infrastructure, especially in hilly terrains.Nearly 13% of India’s land area (0.42 million sq. km) is landslide-prone, as per the Geological Survey of India (GSI). High-risk zones include the Himalayas, Northeastern hills, Western Ghats, Nilgiris, and Eastern Ghats. The Northeast alone accounts for 42% of the total hazard zone due to fragile geology, steep gradients, heavy monsoons, and unregulated construction. India’s tectonic activity and population pressure amplify the frequency and intensity of slope failures.
