Following the devastating landslides in Darjeeling district, Member of Parliament Raju Bista on Sunday visited the disaster-affected areas and assured that both the state and central governments are monitoring the situation and providing all possible assistance.
In a press release issued from his office, Bista said he traveled to Dudhey under Mirik sub-division, one of the worst-hit areas, where landslides have caused 11 confirmed deaths so far. “Among all the affected places, Mirik sub-division has suffered the most. The Dudhey bridge, which connects Mirik valley to Siliguri, has been closed for traffic. Numerous homes have been damaged, some completely and others partially, along the Dudhey, Panighatta, and Pankhabari belts,” Bista stated.
Bista said that he remains in constant touch with the Hon’ble Home Minister, Home Ministry officials, and the Prime Minister’s Office, noting that the devastation is being monitored at the highest level. “The Central Government will provide all possible help to assist the victims,” he added. 
Paying tribute to the first responders, the MP praised the efforts of youths, community members, volunteers, police, administrative officials, and National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) personnel working tirelessly in search, rescue, and relief operations. “It is because of their selfless and dedicated service that many lives have been saved,” Bista said.
Expressing condolences, he said, “I share my heartfelt sympathy with the families of those who have lost their lives in this tragedy. We mourn your loss and keep you in our prayers. I also share my best wishes for the early recovery of those injured in this disaster.”
Bista called upon all alliance partners and political and social organizations to coordinate relief efforts to ensure that aid reaches the affected population promptly. “In times of crisis, we always stand united and are ready to help one another,” he added.
