Jalpaiguri, 21st May: A severe storm caused widespread damage in Mandalghat and adjoining areas of Jalpaiguri district, disrupting train services after trees fell on overhead electric wires early Thursday morning. Several houses, agricultural land and electricity infrastructure were also damaged in the storm.
According to local sources, strong winds accompanied by heavy rainfall lashed the area around 4 am on Thursday. Tin roofs of several houses were blown away while multiple trees were uprooted. Fallen trees damaged several houses and led to disruption of electricity services in different parts of the area.
The storm also severely affected railway operations. Train movement on the route was temporarily suspended after a tree fell on the overhead electric wire near Mandalghat railway station.
After receiving information about the incident, railway officials and administrative personnel launched restoration work on a war footing. Train services resumed after the fallen trees were removed and the overhead electric wires were repaired.
Upon receiving the news, MLA Ananta Deb Adhikari visited the affected area. The administration is currently assessing the extent of the damage.