West Bengal's Chief Minister, Mamata Banerjee, has expressed significant concern regarding the flooding caused by unexpected heavy rainfall in various regions of North and South Bengal. She assured that all necessary assistance would be provided to the affected families.

In a post shared on social media, the Chief Minister stated, 'I am deeply worried and distressed about the sudden heavy rainfall that occurred last night, leading to flooding in several areas of North and South Bengal due to excessive river water flow into our state.'

Banerjee attributed the extensive devastation in North Bengal to over 300 mm of torrential rain that fell within just 12 hours. She explained, 'Last night, more than 300 mm of rain fell in North Bengal in just 12 hours, coupled with excessive water flow from the Sankosh River and river water from Bhutan and Sikkim, resulting in disasters.'

The Chief Minister expressed her sorrow over the loss of lives and property due to the heavy rains and flooding. She remarked, 'It is deeply shocking and saddening to learn that we have lost some of our brothers and sisters due to the heavy rains and flooding. I extend my heartfelt condolences to the families of the deceased and assure them of immediate assistance.'

According to the Chief Minister, the disaster has also caused significant damage to infrastructure. She noted, 'Two iron bridges have collapsed, several roads have been damaged, and flooding has occurred. Large areas in the districts of Darjeeling, Kalimpong, Jalpaiguri, and Alipurduar are submerged.' She specifically mentioned receiving 'alarming reports of damage and loss' from Mirik, Darjeeling, Kalimpong, Jalpaiguri, Matigara, and Alipurduar.

Banerjee assured that she is closely monitoring the situation and has held a virtual meeting with the Chief Secretary. She stated, 'I have been keeping an eye on the situation 24/7 since last night and have met with the Chief Secretary, the Director General of Police, and the district police superintendents of North Bengal, including representatives like Gautam Deb and Anit Thapa.' She added, 'I am in constant contact and will personally visit North Bengal with my Chief Secretary regarding this matter.'

The Chief Minister issued special advice for tourists stranded in the area. She said, 'In the meantime, we are advising tourists in North Bengal to stay put until our police can safely evacuate them. The cost of rescue will be borne by us, and tourists need not worry.' She assured that officials and police will provide all possible assistance to those affected.