Category Archives: Regional

North Bengal civic bodies under line of fire from chief minister Mamata Banerjee

June 25, 2024 Kalimpong News Leave a comment

The Bengal CM reprimanded Gautam Deb, mayor of Siliguri Municipal Corporation for poor performance of the civic body

Avijit Sinha, TT, Siliguri, 25.06.24 : Gautam Deb, the mayor of the Siliguri Municipal Corporation (SMC), came in the line of fire of chief minister Mamata Banerjee on Monday.

On one hand, the chief minister reprimanded him for poor performance of the civic body. On the other hand, she asked Deb to be proactive in stopping the highhandedness of land mafias who are grabbing government land and making illegal constructions.

“We are well aware of what is happening in the Sevoke Road, Kawakhali and Dabgram-Fulbari areas. Mafias are grabbing and selling government land. We have initiated a probe and will not spare these people. Gautam (Deb), you are here and you can’t evade your responsibility,” said Mamata, while speaking at the meeting in Nabanna.

She also asked the mayor to not only demolish illegal constructions but also restore the original condition of such land.

“Be tough. Don’t allow such highhandedness. We have information that a section of policemen and some people in the land (and land reforms) department is also linked to these land mafias,” Mamata told Deb.

In Siliguri and surroundings, highhandedness of land mafias is a major issue which has not been addressed in a major way so far. Several complaints have been registered with the police and the administration regaring the operations of land sharks.

“These land mafias have voted the BJP. It is because of their support that the BJP has won,” said Mamata.

Mamata also said four civic bodies in north Bengal performed “worst.”

The SMC, she said, is one of the worst-performing civic bodies in the state in providing drinking water, along with Alipurduar municipality.

The SMC, Mamata pointed out, has also performed miserably in the field of housing (including its failure to control illegal construction), along with Raiganj municipality.

The Dalkhola civic body, on the other hand, has been included in the list of worst-performers in the parameter of cleanliness.

In the course of the meeting, Mamata also sneered at Rabindranath Ghosh, the civic chairman of Cooch Behar, for the decision to increase mutation charges and some other taxes.

“Who are you to increase the taxes? Such an increase cannot be done without the state’s approval,” said Mamata, while addressing Ghosh.

The chief minister was equally critical over the functioning of certain development authorities and said the Siliguri Jalpaiguri Development Authority (SJDA), has been dissolved.

“Hundreds of people have been engaged at these authorities….they simply sit idle. This will not be tolerated. We have dissolved SJDA and handed over the responsibility to the DM (of Darjeeling),” she said.

Courtesy & source- The Telegraph

Crime, Regional

Siliguri: 2 held for sexually assaulting minors

June 25, 2024 Kalimpong News Leave a comment

MP, 24 June 2024, Siliguri: A 41-year-old man was arrested for allegedly sexually assaulting his 14-year-old minor daughter in Siliguri. According to sources, the accused person used to physically torture his wife regularly.

Recently, when the wife went to her father’s house with her daughter, the minor confided in her mother about her father’s misdeeds.

Immediately, the mother lodged a written complaint at the police station and the police arrested him on Sunday night. In another incident, a 59-year-old man was arrested for allegedly raping a 14-year-old minor in Siliguri.

The accused has been identified as Satish Barman.

Sources said that the minor was left alone at home for a few days while her parents were away for work. During their absence, an elderly man from the neighbourhood allegedly assaulted her.

Upon their return, the minor informed her parents about the incident.

They lodged a complaint on June 12. The accused was arrested on Sunday night. Both the accused have been booked under Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act and produced at Jalpaiguri court on Monday.

Courtesy & source- Millennium Post

https://www.millenniumpost.in/bengal/siliguri-2-held-for-sexually-assaulting-minors-569259?infinitescroll=1

Regional, West Bengal

Heavy rains likely in north Bengal till June 28

June 25, 2024 Kalimpong News Leave a comment

PTI, 24 June 2024 : Heavy to very heavy rainfall is likely in northern West Bengal owing to a trough from Rajasthan to Bangladesh and strong moisture incursion from the Bay of Bengal, officials said on Monday.

A warning was issued for landslides in the hill districts of Darjeeling and Kalimpong, and a rise in the water level of rivers such as Teesta, Jaldhaka, Sankosh and Torsa owing to the possible downpour, they said.

Darjeeling, Kalimpong, Cooch Behar, Jalpaiguri, Alipurduar, Uttar and Dakshin Dinajpur are very likely to receive heavy to very heavy rainfall till June 28 owing to an east-west trough running from southeast Rajasthan to north Bangladesh and strong moisture incursion from the Bay of Bengal, the Met Department said in its forecast.

After days of continuous downpour, there was a respite from the rains in the region.

Thunderstorms with lightning are likely to occur at a few places in southern West Bengal, especially in the coastal and adjoining districts, over the next few days, the Met Department said.

Regional

Darjeeling sets date for a grand ‘Azalea Affair’ on June 30 in a bid to beautify Chowrasta

June 24, 2024 Kalimpong News Leave a comment

Azaleas are hardy plants and are known to flower twice a year in Darjeeling

Vivek Chhetri, TT, Darjeeling, 24.06.24 : Darjeeling has set a date for a grand “Azalea Affair” on June 30 at Chowrasta.

People from different walks of life are preparing to plant hundreds of azaleas, a popular flowering plant of the rhododendron genus, along the popular Mall Road that starts and ends at Chowrasta in a bid to beautify the most popular promenade in town.

Azaleas are hardy plants and are known to flower twice a year in Darjeeling.

“Last year, I, along with Bandu Ratna Bomjon, was on our walk around Chowrasta on World Environment Day (June 5),” said Ananta Sharma, the brain behind the initiative.

The duo noticed that saplings were being planted haphazardly along the Mall Road. “They were bringing saplings by trucks; some people were planting them; some were taking the plants home. It was then that we discussed doing a systematic planting,” said Sharma.

Sharma soon posted the idea on social media and it was well received. “Even last year, we managed to plant many azaleas along the Mall Road.”

From educational institutions like St Teresa Girls Higher Secondary School to St Robert’s Higher Secondary School to non-government organisations like MARG, Hayden Hall, Vik-Run Foundation are contributing to buy saplings.

Courtesy & source- The Telegraph

Crime, Regional

Siliguri: One arrested with horn of rhinoceros

June 24, 2024 Kalimpong News Leave a comment

MP, 23 June 2024, Siliguri: A smuggler was arrested with a horn of rhinoceros before smuggling it to Nepal.

The accused has been identified as Ajit Kumar Singh, a resident of Manipur. According to forest sources, on Saturday night, Seema Suraksha Bal of 41 number battalion and foresters from Tukuriyajhar Forest Range arrested the person near Sat Bhaiya toll plaza under Naxalbari Block. The horn weighing 1.25 kg was recovered from the possession of the accused.

After that he was arrested and handed over to Naxalbari police. The horn was about to be smuggled in Nepal via Siliguri. The rhinoceros will be sent to the Zoological Survey of India for examination.

The arrested was sent to Siliguri Court on Sunday. Investigation is being conducted to find out if anyone else is involved in this incident.

Suraj Mukhiya, Range Officer of Tukuriyajhar said: “We are investigating the origin of the object. We suspect that more people are involved in the case. A detailed investigation is underway.” Meanwhile, a forest worker was killed when a wild elephant attacked him near Kalabari Forest under Naxalbari.

The incident happened in the wee hours on Saturday. The worker has been identified as Rajendra Roy, he was serving as an Aranyasathi in the Forest department.

According to forest sources, four forest workers were attempting to guide a group of elephants back into the forest near the Ashapur Tea Estate in Naxalbari when a wild elephant attacked them. While three of the workers managed to escape, Rajendra Roy was unable to evade the elephant and suffered severe injuries.

Forest officials rescued him and shifted him to North Bengal Medical College and Hospital (NBMCH), where he later succumbed to his injuries. The Forest department and local police are investigating the incident.

https://www.millenniumpost.in/bengal/siliguri-one-arrested-with-horn-of-rhinoceros-569090

Crime, Regional

Gang smuggling banned drugs to Bhutan busted

June 24, 2024 Kalimpong News Leave a comment

RAJESH SHARMA, EOI, JAIGAON, JUNE 23,2024 : The Jaigaon Police have busted a gang involved in smuggling drugs and intoxicants to Bhutan across the international border. Inspector Paljor Bhutia said on Sunday a large quantity of banned capsules and cough syrups had been seized at the check-post.

One person was arrested, a resident of Ghoksadanga in Cooch Behar but now staying in the Triveni Toll area of Jaigaon.

Based on the interrogation of the arrested person another man who used to arrange the supply of these drugs was also arrested on Sunday.

The wife of the supplier was a Bhutanese citizen. A phone seized from them had given clues about many Bhutanese citizens who used to buy these drugs.

Regional

New Evidence Supports Innocence of Goods Train Driver in Kanchanjunga Incident, Unions Assert

June 22, 2024 Kalimpong News Leave a comment

Jeevan Prakash Sharma, Rediff News, June 22, 2024 : Driver unions, which contradicted the Railway Board when it prima facie blamed the now-deceased goods train driver for the deadly collision with the Kanchanjunga Express, have claimed they have fresh documents to prove his innocence.

IMAGE: Rescue operation underway at the Kanchenjunga Express train accident site, in Darjeeling on June 17, 2024. Photograph: ANI Photo

They referred to authority letter T/369 (3B) issued to the goods train driver to cross the first two defective signals after the Ranipatra station premises with a 15 kmph speed restriction while the other authority letter — T/A 912 — did not mention any speed restriction.

Ten people, including the driver, lost their lives and 40 were injured in the accident near New Jalpaiguri on June 17. The employees’ unions had said that squarely blaming the driver, who is not alive to defend himself, amounts to making him a scapegoat for the systematic shortcomings of the Railways.

Indian Railway Loco Runningmen Organisation’s working president Sanjay Pandhi on Friday said, “T/A 912 was issued to all seven train drivers who passed Ranipatra station after 5.50 am to cross nine defective signals and it does not show any speed limit.”

“However, T/369 (3B), which was issued separately to cross two signals immediately after leaving Ranipatra station premise (also called starter and advanced starter signals), imposes a speed limit of 15 kmph,” he added.

Pandhi argued that the T/369 (3B) authority letter along with existing rules of driving during multiple signal failures prove that the goods train driver was right in crossing all defective signals at normal speed.

The Railway Board, in its initial response, said the goods’ train driver overshot the signal which caused the accident. Later, it emerged that the automatic signalling system had failed since 5:50 am on that day due to which all automatic signals between Ranipatra and Chattar Hat turned defective.

The station master of Ranipatra, following the railway operation norms, issued the authority letter T/A 912 to all train drivers to pass through defective signals.

Railway Unions such as IRLRO and All India Railwaymen’s Federation defended the deceased driver and said he had the authority letter to cross defective signals hence he was not at fault.

The Unions blamed the operating department of New Jalpaiguri for not ensuring that the section (route between Ranipatra and Chattar Hat) was clear before issuing T/A 912 to the goods train driver.

According to the Unions, when multiple signals in an automatic signalling system fail, safety norms dictate that the whole section should be converted into an absolute block system and only one train should be allowed at a time.

The Railway Board countered this argument, saying that even if the goods train driver was issued T/A 912, an authority to cross defective signals, he should have proceeded with a caution speed of 10 kmph with a one-minute stoppage at each red signal.

Five senior officials of a joint probe team held on June 18 that the goods train driver was guilty of violating signal aspects and speed restrictions. One official of the probe team gave a dissenting opinion and blamed the operating department of the New Jalpaiguri division.

Now, it has come to light that after the signalling failure at Ranipatra, authority letter T/369 (3B) was also issued to all drivers, asking them to pass two defective departure signals immediately after the station premises with a restrictive speed of 15 kmph.

A railway safety expert said, “T/369 (3B) is issued to train drivers when two signals (called starter and advanced started) that come immediately after the station premises turn defective. T/A 912 is issued for all other signals after these two signals till the home signal (an entry signal) of the next station.”

Pandhi said there were 11 signals between Ranipatra and Chattar Hat stations.

“If I put it in sequence, these 11 signals include Ranipatra station’s starter, advanced starter and automatic signals AS-654, AS-652, AS-650, AS-648, AS-646, AS-644, AS-642, AS-640 and AS-638. After all these signals, the Home Signal of Chattar Hat station comes,” Pandhi said.

“Now, if you see T/369 (3B), it tells the driver to pass the starter and advanced starter at 15 kmph speed and then T/A 912 tells the driver to pass the remaining nine signals without mentioning any speed limit. It is very much obvious that the driver will cross all these signals at normal speed,” he added.

Shiv Gopal Mishra, the general secretary of AIRF, said, “The station master should have ensured that the section is clear of any train before issuing these two authority letters. Maintaining precaution in a defective signalling system is everyone’s duty but the goods train driver should not be held responsible.”

The matter is now being investigated by the Commissioner of Railway Safety.

Education, Regional, West Bengal

Government Directs District Inspectors to Monitor Energy Efficiency in Schools, Curtail Power Wastage

June 22, 2024 Kalimpong News Leave a comment

The official said the education department has received complaints that non-teaching employees at times forget to switch off lights, fans and other electric appliances after the classes are over or the campus shuts for the day

Subhankar Chowdhury, TT, Calcutta, 22.06.24 : The state education department has asked the district inspectors (DIs) of schools to be vigilant against consumption of power beyond school hours in government and government-aided schools and run random checks on campuses.

A notice addressed to the DIs and signed by the commissioner of school education says: “You are also requested to ensure visit in the schools under your jurisdiction beyond school hours by yourself and subordinate officials for random checks about any misuse of power consumption.”

The notice was issued on Thursday, hours after chief minister Mamata Banerjee expressed her dissatisfaction in a meeting over the alleged misuse of electricity in government offices and schools.

“The chief minister feels that if the office heads or institution heads remain cautious, the expenditure on electricity bills could be cut down to some extent,” said an official in the state primary education board.

The notice by the commissioner of school education says: “It has come to the knowledge at some places, the use of power/electricity is not efficient. At times, the misuse of power beyond class hours has been observed. It is thus be advised that all school authorities be communicated to remain extremely vigilant with regard to power consumption. Any unnecessary use of electricity must be avoided at each place.”

It further says: “You are also requested to ensure visit in the schools under your jurisdiction….”

The primary education board, secondary education board and the council of higher secondary education have been issued copies of the notice.

There are about 55,000 primary schools run or aided by the government in Bengal. The number of secondary and higher secondary schools run or aided by the government stands at close to 12,000 and 9,000, respectively.

“If misuse of power could be prevented at these institutions, a substantial amount of money could be saved,” said an official.

“The teachers, too, stand accused of dereliction of duty,” the official said.

Swapan Mandal, the general secretary of the Bengal Teachers’ and Employees’ Association, said: “The schools are required to send data about their teachers or other information…. The work for that is done after classes. We have to keep lights and fans on for this work.”

Regional

Teesta River Swells Pose Risk to NH10: Erosion Threatens Vital Highway Infrastructure Amid Heavy Rainfall

June 22, 2024 Kalimpong News Leave a comment

Along NH10, cracks have developed beside the road on many stretches, prompting the police and the local administration to put guardrails and fluorescent tapes to keep vehicles away from the damaged portions

Teesta damages NH10 in Melli of Kalimpong district: Picture by Passang Yolmo

TT Bureau Malda, Siliguri, 22.06.24 : The heavy monsoonal downpour that triggered landslides in many parts of Sikkim also caused the Teesta to swell, which now is eroding mounds of earth from under NH10, the principal highway that connects Sikkim and Kalimpong with Siliguri and rest of the country.

“The Teesta is constantly eroding land in locations such as Melli, Teesta Bazaar and 28th Mile. Such erosion has led to cracks in the highway. If the water levels don’t recede and erosion continues, there is a risk of cave-ins. That is why, drivers have been advised to drive with caution,” said a source in the Kalimpong district administration.

Last October, when a flash flood occurred in the Teesta because of the glacial lake outburst flood in South Lhonak Lake in north Sikkim, the river had swept away many stretches of NH10.

“The stretches were eventually repaired and traffic resumed on the route. However, over the past couple of months, multiple landslides in Likhu Vir, Ravi Jhora and some other areas along the highway damaged the stretches again and disrupted connectivity,” the official added.

Now if there are cave-ins at the cracked parts, the stretches would get narrower and vehicles, especially heavy vehicles, would be forced to take detours, the official added.

Residents of Kesharpur village in Manikchak block, Malda, stand at the confluence of the Fulhar and Koshi rivers that started eroding land on Friday

The alternative route to Kalimpong and Sikkim — the most popular being the Gorubathan–Lava route — means an additional travel of at least 70km.

Sources in the state PWD which maintains the road said they were clearing debris caused by landslides. “However, permanent repair work can be carried out only after the weather conditions improve,” said a source.

Such recurring disruptions on the highway have prompted Raju Bista, the Darjeeling MP, to approach the Centre with the request that the Bengal stretch of the highway be handed over to the National Highways and Infrastructure Development Corporation Limited (NHIDCL) or the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI).

Along with residents and tourists, the highway is regularly used by defence forces to move to Sikkim, a mountainous state on the India-China border.

Right now, traffic is still moving on NH10, but vehicles can’t move on the road connecting Darjeeling with Kalimpong because the Teesta has inundated the Teesta Bazar stretch and flooded some houses.

“We are keeping a watch over the situation. People have been asked to be on alert and shift to safer places in case water levels rise,” an official said.

Malda erosion

In Malda district, two rain-fed rivers have started eroding land in parts of at least two blocks over the past two days.

Fulhar, sources said, has been eroding its banks in Harishchandrapur-II block since Thursday night. The erosion has left residents of Kowadol, Rashidpur, Uttar Bhakuria, Dakshin Bhakuria, Mirpara and Tantipara villages worried that the river would eventually gobble their land and homes.

“The river is flowing barely 100 metres away from my village,” said Alam Sheikh of Rashidpur.

Erosion has been reported at the confluence of the Fulhar and the Koshi. The rivers are flowing hardly 20 metres away from the embankment in Kesharpur village of Manikchak block.

“The rivers are eroding earth along a 200-metre-long stretch and water is steadily advancing towards the embankment. We are keeping our fingers crossed. If the embankment is breached, our village will be underwater,” said Birbal Mahato, a villager.

Pankaj Tramang, the subdivisional officer (Sadar) has visited the erosion-hit areas in Manikchak, said sources.

“Officials of the two blocks have been put on alert,” said a district administration official.

The 40th battalion of the BSF posted in Jalpaiguri district on Friday also evacuated residents of Singhpara village located on a dry bed of the Teesta river when residents reported that the swollen river had started gobbling land of their village.

Regional, West Bengal

Reconstruction of famous bungalow at Holong in limbo until approved by PM Modi

June 21, 2024 Kalimpong News Leave a comment

On Tuesday night, the 57-year-old wooden bungalow, a popular destination of many prominent personalities, including former chief minister Jyoti Basu, was gutted in a blaze

The bungalow before the blaze at Holong in the Jaldapara National Park

TT Correspondent, Alipurduar, 21.06.24 : The reconstruction of the famous bungalow at Holong in the Jaldapara National Park of Alipurduar district depends on the approval of the National Board for Wildlife (NBWL) which is headed by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, senior Bengal forest department officers said on Thursday.

On Tuesday night, the 57-year-old wooden bungalow, a popular destination of many prominent personalities, including former chief minister Jyoti Basu, was gutted in a blaze.

Debal Roy, the state’s chief wildlife warden (CWLW), visited the site on Thursday in Jaldapara — the largest habitat of one-horned rhinos in Bengal.

“As of now, we have no plan to reconstruct the bungalow in Holong. This is because such construction can be carried out only if the NBWL approves it. Police and some other agencies are probing the fire,” said Roy.

He, however, didn’t clarify whether the Bengal forest department would approach the NBWL with a proposal to rebuild the bungalow.

After the incident, many people have written posts on social media, seeking the reconstruction of the bungalow the way it was.

Sources in the forest department said construction of any property for commercial purposes — five rooms of the gutted bungalow were with the state tourism department and people could book rooms to stay there — is not allowed in reserve forest areas according to the Wildlife Protection Act of 1972.

“When the bungalow was built (in 1967), the restriction was not there. But now, the decision has to be taken by the NBWL. Even if it is reconstructed, it would most likely be for the use of the department and not for visitors,” said a retired forest officer.

He said the forest bungalow at Jainti in the Buxa Tiger Reserve had also been damaged in a blaze. Later, it was reconstructed but only foresters could stay there.

“No commercial booking is available for this bungalow,” the former forester added.

Around 10 years ago, the state tourist department started constructing a bungalow at a location in Sajnekhali of the Sundarbans on a patch of forest land. Its construction was stopped by the NBWL.

“We understand the emotions of people… but we have to abide by the law,” said Roy, the CWLW.

On Wednesday, the department had constituted a five-member committee to investigate the fire. The team will reach the site soon.

MP irked

Manoj Tigga, the BJP MP of Alipurduar and the former MLA of Madarihat, in which Jaldapara is located, expressed his disgruntlement as foresters stopped him from visiting the gutted bungalow on Thursday.

When Tigga reached the entry gate, which is off Asian Highway 48 and around 8km from the bungalow, foresters posted there denied him permission.

“I wanted to speak with senior foresters to know how the fire broke out. But they didn’t allow me. It seems the department is trying to conceal something,” said Tigga.

Crime, Regional, West Bengal

Train crash probe widens to training, investigations undergoing behind collision

June 21, 2024 Kalimpong News Leave a comment

The chief commissioner of railway safety (CCRS), Janak Kumar Garg, of the Northeast Frontier Circle has been investigating the incident in which a goods train rammed into the rear end of the Sealdah-bound Kanchenjunga Express near the Rangapani station of the Darjeeling district

Workers cover the mangled coaches at the accident site on Thursday: Picture by Passang Yolmo

Bireswar Banerjee, TT, Siliguri, 21.06.24 : The claim by loco pilots of the Northeast Frontier Railway that their training is deficient has gained ground as instructors and others associated with the zonal training centre of the NFR have been brought under the ambit of the probe into the collision of the two trains near Siliguri on Monday.

“Those associated with the zonal training centre in Alipurduar have been called. Their statements would be recorded. In the course of the inquiry, all possible angles would be explored to find out what has led to the accident,” Surendra Kumar, the divisional railway manager of the Katihar division of the NFR, said on Thursday.

He said statements of 16 persons had been recorded since Wednesday.

After the accident, loco pilots and representatives of the All India Loco Running Staff Association had said although an automated signalling system had been introduced in the NFR, they were not trained properly.

“The loco pilots need proper training so that they can run trains along stretches where the automatic signalling has been introduced and also if the system is not running,” a representative of the association had said.

In the NFR, loco pilots are provided with practical training at the specialized loco training institute in Siliguri Junction station.

“The would-be loco pilots are trained for two months at the institute. After the training, he/she is declared eligible as an assistant loco pilot. In due course, he takes further training to be promoted as a loco pilot,” said a source.

In one batch, around 60 candidates can be trained at the institute.

From there, the candidates are sent to the Multi-Disciplinary Zonal Railway Training Institute in Alipurduar for further training.

Also, loco pilots, station managers and others working in different wings of the railways are provided with training at the centre.

The training modules include theoretical and practical classes and are followed by exams and interviews.

“According to the rule, a loco pilot has to pass the exam and the interview. Only then, he/she gets a certificate which mentions that the loco pilot or the assistant loco pilot is proficient to run trains along stretches where there is an automatic signalling system,” said a source.

A loco pilot based at NJP has said that as the instructors and others who provide training have been called for the inquiry, it is evident that the CCRS will record their statements to find out whether adequate training was provided to loco pilots, station managers and others associated with railway operations.

Kumar, the DRM, however, rejected the charge raised by loco pilots.

“Training is conducted systematically.” he said this evening.

Regional, West Bengal

Meshes Conceal Rail Wreckage from Onlookers at Kanchenjungha Train Crash Site

June 21, 2024 Kalimpong News Leave a comment

GRP jawans walk near the accident site on Thursday: Picture by Passang Yolmo

TT Correspondent, Siliguri, 21.06.24 :

The Northeast Frontier Railway (NFR) has engaged workers at the accident site near the Rangapani station of Jalpaiguri district to place green-coloured meshes to cover the wreckage while the final repair of the tracks is in progress.

Mangled coaches and other debris were still lying at the site on Thursday when the workers placed the meshes.

“It will discourage curious onlookers from swarming the site. Also, trains are running along the route and passengers are standing near the doors to catch a glimpse of the wreckage. This is risky. That is why the wreckage has been covered,” said a source in the NFR.

After the mishap on Monday, railways restored train movement along the up track (the second track) around 5.40pm on the same day. Repairs were carried out throughout the night and on Tuesday morning, the down track where the accident had occurred was restored for movement of trains.

“However, some final repairs have to be done as trains are moving at a lower speed along the stretch. That work is going on at the site in an intermittent manner and trains are passing through the area with utmost caution,” the source added.

Personnel of the Railway Protection Force (RPF) have been posted at the site. Sources said they are using carbolic acid to keep themselves safe.

“It is raining these days and snakes can be seen near the site. That is why, necessary precautions are being taken,” said a source.

In the ADRM’s office in New Jalpaiguri, the hearing of railway staff continued for the second day today. A number of employees appeared before the chief commissioner of railway safety (CCRS) and got their statements recorded.

“Their statements, along with documentary evidence would be corroborated. The inquiry is likely to continue for some more time as various information has to be gathered,” said Surendra Kumar, the divisional railway manager of the Katihar division of the NFR.

The railway authorities are yet to talk to Manu Kumar, the assistant loco pilot of the goods train, who is under treatment.

“Our doctors will speak with doctors who are treating him to know his condition. Once he recovers, we will talk to him. His statement is vital as the loco pilot of the goods train has died in the accident,” said an official.

New trains

The NFR has decided to start two pairs of Garib Rath Express from July to connect Calcutta with the Northeast.

While a pair will run between Agartala and Kolkata stations, the other will connect Kolkata station with Guwahati.

Both would be weekly trains and will stop at different stations in Bengal and the Northeast.

“There will be 16 AC-III economy coaches in each train,” said an official.

Courtesy & source- The Telegraph

Regional, Sikkim

Danger looms over the Teesta and adjoining areas

June 21, 2024 Kalimpong News Leave a comment

YOWAN MOTHAY, EOI, KALIMPONG, JUNE 20, 2024 : The continuous rains in Sikkim and Kalimpong caused the water level of Teesta river to rise today which led to flooding the road to Darjeeling.

The construction work started by PWD a few days ago was also stopped today. Traffic has also been halted on this route. According to information provided by Kalimpong District Magistrate Balasubramanyam T, those flood affected families have been temporarily kept in a camp at Labarbote.

There are 31 flood affected families in the relief camp and they are being looked after by the Kalimpong district administration.

However people still living in their houses express fear of a water burial as Teesta swells. water levels rise.

Says a Malli resident, Mahendra Chowdhary: “There is an atmosphere of fear in Malli at night because all the buildings on Malli Road are on the edge of the Teesta River. I was awake till 3 am.

Life has become horrible,’’ he said. In the same way, the National Highway-10, which is considered the lifeline of Sikkim and Kalimpong has been damaged because of the rains.

Kalimpong district administration has restricted the movement of vehicles from 6 pm to 6 am at Malli Bridge, Ravi Jhoda and Likhuvir on National Highway-10 keeping in mind the safety of the people.

Vehicles going to Siliguri from Sikkim and Kalipong were often seen taking an alternate route to Siliguri through Lava.Traffic police personnel were deployed at Chitra and Ravijhoda for direction to vehicles.

Regional

34 people die in Tamil Nadu after consuming illicit arrack

June 21, 2024 Kalimpong News Leave a comment

PTI, Kallakurichi/Chennai, Jun 20, 2024 : The entire Karunapuram locality in Kallakurichi on Thursday echoed with the wails of the family members of the victims of illicit arrack that claimed the lives of at least 34 people. About 100 others are undergoing treatment.

Following the tragedy in the state’s northern district, the opposition lashed out at the DMK while the ruling party said it should not be assumed such issues happened only during its regime.

While Leader of Opposition Edappadi K Palaniswami demanded Chief Minister M K Stalin’s resignation, the CM said: “The Kallakurichi incident must not have happened and it has caused deep anguish to me.” The deaths were due to consumption of ‘methanol mixed arrack,’ he said, adding he has directed authorities to ensure special care to those being treated in hospitals.

Stalin, who held a meeting to review the situation, announced setting up of a one-man commission to be led by retired Madras High Court Judge B Gokuldas to make recommendations to the government on measures to be taken to prevent recurrence of such incidents and also look into the reasons for the deaths.

Four people linked to the sale of the poisonous arrack have been arrested so far, Stalin said and declared Rs 10 lakh assistance to each of the families of the deceased. Also, he announced Rs 50,000 assistance to those who are being treated in hospitals.

The state Home Secretary and Director General of Police will submit a report on the hooch tragedy following inspection.

The CM assured tough action against those who provided methanol for making the spurious concoction that became poisonous.

The entire Karunapuram, which has witnessed the deaths, including that of two women and one transgender, wore a gloomy look.

Heart-wrenching scenes, including that of a sobbing young girl, anxious relatives awaiting a medical update on their near and dear ones and women wailing in the streets were witnessed in this nondescript locality.

Leader of Opposition (LoP), Edappadi K Palaniswami visited the affected people, including three children who have apparently lost both their parents.

According to locals, a contributing factor for the increase in death toll is the ‘initial denial’ of district authorities including police for several hours on Wednesday that the deaths, which were less than five at that time, were not due to ‘illicit arrack.’ Several others consumed illicit arrack and some of them had got stored in their houses.

Meanwhile, #Resign Stalin trended on social media platform ‘X’ and several users targeted the ‘Dravidian model’ tagline of the DMK regime by posting messages using the hashtag #Saraya model (arrack model).

State BJP president K Annamalai announced a state-wide protest on June 22 against the ‘incompetence’ of the DMK government in curbing illicit liquor.

While the CB-CID officials began their probe in Kallakurichi, Stalin said he had directed them to probe the source of methanol and its complete destruction at the local level. Authorities had already seized about 200 litres of illicit arrack and an analysis disclosed the presence of deadly methanol.

Health Minister Ma Subramanian and PWD Minister EV Velu are in Kallakurichi to render help to the affected people. District Collector MS Prasanth said 116 people were admitted in various government-run facilities and out of them 34 died.

Palaniswami alleged the point of sale of illicit arrack “is the central place of Kallakurichi, close to the police station and court.” The AIADMK chief claimed “36 people have died.”

Addressing reporters in Kallakurichi, he said there is a ‘big gang’ behind the sale of illicit arrack which also has the involvement of ‘powerful persons’ who belong to the ruling DMK. “Otherwise, could the sale of illicit arrack happen in the central locality of the town and near the police station?” he asked.

Expressing anguish and recalling similar past incidents, he said his party legislator M Senthil Kumar (Kallakurichi Assembly constituency) had days ago complained about the menace of illicit arrack to local police. However, no action was taken.

On March 29, 2023, Senthil Kumar had submitted a call attention motion with Assembly officials. However, it was not taken up, he alleged. Had this been debated and action taken, such deaths could have been averted. “Illicit liquor is flowing like a river in Tamil Nadu.”

Ruling DMK’s allies–CPI and MDMK demanded tough legal action against those involved in the episode.

The Kallakurichi incident comes a year after the death of 21 people in Villupuram and Chengalpet districts after consuming spurious liquor.

Regional, Sikkim

Kalimpong sees the debut of “Tara: The Lost Star” at Dream Theater

June 20, 2024 Kalimpong News Leave a comment

KalimNews, Kalimpong, 20 June 2024 : Tara: the Lost Star, is finally being screened at Dream Theater in Kalimpong. The film was released across India, starting from Sikkim to the northeastern states and beyond, since June 14, 2024. Directed by Samten Bhutia, the film is co-produced by Sabitri Chettri and actor Shyama Shree Sherpa. It is presented by SaDa Productions in association with Passang Mintok Films. Several crew members including actor Shyama Shree Sherpa were present today at Kalimpong and addressed the press.

This film has made history as the first film from Sikkim to debut at the Marché Du Film, the official film market of the prestigious Cannes International Film Festival. The 77th Annual Cannes International Film Festival was attended by the actor cum producer Shyama Shree Sherpa.

Completed in about seven months, the film is 1.5 hours long. Tara: the Lost Star, was filmed against the breathtaking backdrop of Gnathang-Memenchu near Changu Lake in Sikkim. It encapsulates the essence of Sikkim’s natural beauty and cultural heritage, representing the creative synergy and cultural richness of the region.

The film features popular artists from Sikkim, Nepal, and Darjeeling. It is a Nepali-language feature film that offers a glimpse into the beliefs of the Himalayas and the vibrant culture of Sikkim. It is a social drama about the struggle between superstitious beliefs and medical science, and one woman’s fight for freedom from religious constraints.

Actors Shyama Shree Sherpa (Tara), Sushmita Bhujel (Manita), Nityam Bhattarai (Kale), Shashikala Pradhan (Sanmaya), Basanta Sharma (Kishor), Anand Gurung (Pema), Timothy Rai (Dhupaure) are from Sikkim, while Kiran Dahal (Suman) and Loonibha Tuladhar (Kopila) are from Nepal. Deoraj Sherpa (Agam), a well-known actor from Darjeeling, is also part of the team. Sikkim’s Prasant Rasaily and Pramod Karki contributed to the background score and cinematography, respectively.

Tara: the Lost Star, follows the journey of 21-year-old Tara, who resides in a scenic and secluded village near Gangtok, Sikkim. Since childhood, she has grappled with dissociative trance disorder, which frequently results in seizures. While her father advocates for medical treatment to alleviate her condition, her mother holds steadfastly to a contrasting belief.

Blinded by unfounded faith and prejudice, she perceives Tara as a reincarnation of the revered goddess “Mata,” a belief ingrained since Tara’s youth. Consequently, she seeks spiritual intervention from a shaman rather than embracing medical solutions. Tara finds herself torn between her parents’ divergent perspectives as she navigates the complexities of her existence.

A reserved individual by nature, Tara silently witnesses their disputes concerning her well-being, feeling powerless. However, her life takes an unexpected turn when her friend Manita provides unwavering support, and she discovers comfort and affection in her classmate, Suman. In this tumultuous environment, Tara begins to discover her voice for the first time.

Despite the village’s proximity to modern civilization, the film sheds light on a world often overlooked or misunderstood by outsiders.

The performances of its two lead actors, along with those of other supporting actors in this tale of a young couple’s struggles, are highly praised in the film Tara: the Lost Star. Not only the story but also the dialogue in the local language, and the cinematography played significant roles in it. Technically, the location, makeup, and lighting are well-managed and executed superbly in the film.

Regional

Elephants Rescued from Teesta River Torrents in Successful Operation

June 20, 2024 Kalimpong News Leave a comment

Dibyendu Sinha, MP, 19 June 2024, Jalpaiguri: Two elephants, along with a cub, were washed away while crossing an overflowing river on Tuesday night in the Teesta Barrage area adjacent to Baikunthapur Forest.

After several hours of efforts, forest workers, with the help of barrage workers, rescued the elephants by opening the gate of the Gajoldoba Teesta Barrage. According to a source from the Belakoba Range of the Baikunthapur Forest Division, a herd of around 100 elephants has been in the Belakoba Forest for the past few weeks. Occasionally, the group travels across the Teesta River for food.

On Tuesday night, the group was in the Milan Palli area near the Teesta River. While crossing the river, some members of the group were swept away.

Belakoba Range Officer Chiranjit Pal said: “Two other elephants jumped into the water to rescue the cub. Three elephants floated near the barrage. After this, the elephants were rescued with the help of barrage staff.
There were about eleven elephants in the group. The group is being monitored.” Meanwhile, Teesta Barrage staff Prafulla Bala said: “At 12 o’clock in the night, three elephants got stuck at gate number 15 of the barrage.

The three elephants were also hurt by the water and the lock gate. As soon as the matter was noticed, the local residents and forest workers were informed. Attempts were made to rescue them, but it was not possible due to high water levels.

Finally, the gate had to be opened, and the elephants floated away. Later on, the elephants managed to get up on the other side of the river.”

Although the water levels of the Teesta and Jaldhaka rivers have slightly reduced, communication between Angrabhasa and Banku Bazar has been cut off due to the breakdown of the culvert under construction in the Chachar Jhora area in Banarhat Block.

Water has entered several Gram Panchayat areas.

“There is a possibility of heavy rain lashing the northern districts for the next four to five days. An orange alert has been issued for Kalimpong, Cooch Behar, Jalpaiguri and Darjeeling,” said Gopinath Raha, an official of the Sikkim Meteorological department.

Courtesy & source- Millennium Post

https://www.millenniumpost.in/bengal/elephants-rescued-after-being-swept-away-by-overflowing-teesta-568609

Regional, Sikkim

Rescue operations in North Sikkim end with evacuation of remaining 158 stranded tourists

June 20, 2024 Kalimpong News Leave a comment

PTI, Gangtok, Jun 19, 2024 : The rescue operations in North Sikkim ended on Wednesday with the evacuation of the remaining 158 stranded tourists, a senior official said.

Mangan District Magistrate Hem Kumar Chettri said that all the 1,447 stranded tourists have been evacuated in the last three days. A total of 1,225 tourists were rescued on Tuesday and 64 on Monday.

“With the rescue of 158 tourists on the third and final day of the operation, we have evacuated all the 1,447 stranded tourists,” he said.

Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang said that the 1,447 tourists have been sent back to their respective destinations.

“The incessant rainfall from June 12-14, 2024, caused by a cloudburst in North Sikkim, had left a total of 1,447 tourists stranded in Mangan district… All of them have now been successfully evacuated and sent back to their respective destinations through extensive rescue operations,” he said.

The CM thanked all those who were involved in the rescue operation and to the tourists for their patience during the challenging time.

Chettri said the tourists, who were holed up in Lachung for several days, were evacuated to Mangan town via Chungthang.

Most of the tourists were transported to state capital Gangtok in vehicles provided by the transport department, Chettri said.

Besides the district administration and police, BRO, NDRF, SDRF, Travel Agents’ Association of Sikkim (TAAS), local panchayats and volunteers were involved in the rescue operation.

Mangan district is known for popular tourist spots like Gurudongmar Lake and Yumthang Valley.

At least six people have been killed in Sikkim due to landslides triggered by heavy rain over the last few days. The natural calamity has also damaged properties and disrupted power and food supplies and mobile networks in several areas, officials said.

Around 1,500 tourists, including some foreigners, were stranded in Lachung town due to the landslides.

The road network in Mangan district has become severely damaged, with the district magistrate ordering the closure of schools in 10 clusters of Mangan and Dzongu blocks till further orders.

The Border Roads Organisation has been working to clear the roads and restore connectivity.

PIB, 19 JUN 2024, Gangtok : Despite incessant rains and inclement weather the last batch of 150 tourists was evacuated from North Sikkim on 19 Jun. Trishakti Corps, responsible has been working relentlessly to assist the civil administration and locals in the evacuation of the 1200 tourists that got stranded in North Sikkim since 12/13 Jun 24.Due to incessant rains and landslides at a number of places, evacuation of the stranded tourists could begin only on the 17th. The tourists had to cross the sites of landslides on foot and travel in vehicles on the stretches in between wherever road connectivity existed.

Out of the 150 tourists that were evacuated on 19th Jun, many needed medical care & walking assistance during their evacuation. Three persons requiring urgent medical support were given treatment at Military Hospital and then safely moved on stretchers.The tourists were shifted utilising all resources including two wheelers and carried on backs.

Every year number of times due to sudden snowfall, excessive rainfall, landslides and road closure, the tourists get stranded in the border areas and then Army soldiers do their best to rescue the tourists, providing food, shelter, medical comfort and bringing them to safety.

Indian Army while guarding the borders in the Himalayas is always proactive in providing assistance to the tourists & local populations.