The return of Maa Durga to her husband’s home, a poignant moment for any member of the Bengali community, turned tragic as eight people lost their lives following the flash flood.
The incident occurred in the Mal river in Jalpaiguri during the immersion of Durga idols. The sudden rise in the water level also injured 13 people, who are undergoing treatment at Mal SSH in Jalpaiguri.
“Anguished by the mishap during Durga Puja festivities in Jalpaiguri, West Bengal. Condolences to those who lost their loved ones,” PM Narendra Modi tweeted.
“₹2 lakh from Prime Minister’s National Relief Fund (PMNRF) would be given to the next of kin of each of the deceased in the tragic mishap during Durga Puja festivities in Jalpaiguri, West Bengal. The injured would be given ₹50,000,” PM stated in his tweet.
Reacting to the incident, West Bengal Chief minister Mamata Banerjee tweeted, “A tragic flash flood hit the Mal River in Jalpaiguri as Durga Visarjan was underway. 8 people lost their lives, I pray that their families find strength & solace in these difficult times. 13 people are undergoing treatment at Mal SSH, I pray for their speedy recovery.”
Around 70 people were saved by the efforts of the police, Civil Defence Volunteers and local youth. I commend their selfless service, Banerjee stated.
An ex-gratia amount of ₹2 lakhs will be given to the next of kin of the deceased and ₹50,000 to the injured, announced the CM via her official Twitter handle.
Search and rescue operations by NDRF and SDRF are still underway. Helpline numbers provided by the state government are 03561230780 and 9073936815.