Rhinos Drown, Roads Turn Rivers: Bengal Floods Leave Trail of Destruction
By Snehil Singh | Oct 06, 2025 | 05:13 PM
Heavy, unabating rains in West Bengal have wreaked havoc, killing at least 28 people and leaving dozens missing. The worst-hit area is Darjeeling district, with Mirik alone reporting 13 deaths. Rescue operations are ongoing as many remain unaccounted for.
The intense downpours in North Bengal have triggered landslides that caused roads to collapse, leaving numerous tourists stranded during the busy Durga Puja holidays.
Impact on Wildlife
A viral video from near Jaldapara National Park shows rhinos floating in floodwaters and even chasing people. The park is home to the famous one-horned rhinoceros and other endangered species, highlighting the severe impact of flooding on wildlife.
The heavy rains have also caused significant damage across the border in Nepal, where water-related disasters have claimed 47 lives, with nine individuals currently missing, according to The Kathmandu Post.
Rescue Efforts Underway
In an extraordinary display of teamwork, elephants have been employed to rescue stranded tourists. Ravikant Jha, Assistant Wildlife Warden of Jaldapara, explained, “Our elephants have helped transport 2 to 4 tourists across the river after a wooden bridge near the lodge collapsed due to the rains.”
The National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) has also been actively involved in flood and water rescue operations. So far, over 160 people have been rescued, with 105 transported by boats and another 55 airlifted or evacuated using zip lines in Jalpaiguri. Sadly, a deceased individual was recovered during these rescue efforts.
Weather Forecast
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a forecast predicting scattered light to moderate rain in the sub-Himalayan regions until October 12. Thunderstorms, gusty winds reaching speeds of 30-40 km/h, and isolated lightning strikes are expected until Tuesday morning.
The ongoing situation demands vigilance and coordinated rescue efforts as communities, wildlife, and infrastructure continue to grapple with the devastating floods.
