North Bengal rail connectivity disrupted by Farakka track landslide

Heavy rainfall has caused a significant landslide on the railway tracks near New Farakka station, severing rail connectivity between North Bengal and South Bengal. The landslide, spanning approximately 100 meters with a depth of 15 feet, has forced Eastern Railway to cancel numerous long-distance and express trains, including the Darjeeling Mail, Kanchanjungha Express, and various others heading toward Howrah and Sealdah.

As rail services remain suspended, passengers are increasingly relying on bus transportation. While the North Bengal State Transport Corporation (NBSTC) and South Bengal State Transport Corporation (SBSTC) have introduced additional AC and non-AC bus services between Kolkata and Siliguri to alleviate the crisis, travelers have reported significant issues with private operators. There are widespread allegations of private bus operators charging exorbitant fares, with some reports claiming prices have increased three to four times the standard rate.

Repair work is currently underway under emergency conditions to restore the tracks. Meanwhile, weather authorities have issued warnings for continued heavy rainfall in several North Bengal districts, including Malda, Jalpaiguri, and Alipurduar, which may further complicate recovery efforts.