Landslides triggered by heavy rain have killed around 14 people across North Bengal, officials said.

The worst damage was reported from Mirik and Sukhia, where a bridge collapse cut road links. The Dudhia Bridge was also damaged, disrupting traffic between key hill towns.

Rescue teams from the disaster management authority, police and local volunteers worked through difficult conditions. Several people remain missing.

The India Meteorological Department had warned of very heavy rainfall in the Darjeeling and Kalimpong hills. Hillsides saturated by days of rain gave way in multiple places.

West Bengal's chief minister's office said it was monitoring the situation. Relief camps were being set up for families whose homes were destroyed.

The region sees deadly landslides most monsoon seasons. Experts blame a mix of intense rain, construction on fragile slopes and blocked drainage.

Mirik and Sukhia are popular tourist destinations, and the landslides have stranded visitors in the hills. The district administration has opened helplines for families seeking information about missing relatives.

Sources: madhyamamonline.com, testbook.com.