At Least 34 Dead as Torrential Floods Ravage Northeast India, Thousands Evacuated

At least 34 people have lost their lives over the past four days in northeastern India, as relentless heavy rains triggered devastating floods and landslides across the region, authorities and local media reported on Monday. The Indian Meteorological Department has issued warnings of continued intense rainfall in the coming days.

In the Himalayan state of Sikkim, more than 1,000 tourists remain trapped amid rising waters, prompting large-scale evacuation efforts coordinated by the government. Meanwhile, in Meghalaya state, army rescue teams are actively working to evacuate over 500 residents stranded in isolated, flood-affected areas.

The crisis has also spilled into neighboring Bangladesh, where a landslide in the northeastern Sylhet district claimed at least four lives.

Hundreds of temporary shelters have been opened in the hilly districts of Rangamati, Bandarban, and Khagrachhari to accommodate displaced families.

Officials have warned of the heightened risk of further landslides and flash floods and urged residents in vulnerable zones to stay vigilant and heed evacuation orders.

The annual monsoon season brings recurrent heavy rains to the region, frequently triggering deadly landslides and floods that affect millions. In Assam’s Silchar city, widespread flooding submerged streets and homes, while fallen trees blocked key roadways, as captured in footage shared by local news agency ANI.

Authorities continue rescue and relief operations amid concerns over worsening weather, as communities brace for additional rainfall and the ongoing humanitarian challenges it brings.