It has already been 11 years since the
devastating landslide ravaged a number of villages under Ghayabari Tea
Garden on July 8, 2003, yet the victims are still reeling under problems
caused by the devastation. A total of 24 people were killed at various
villages, including Rohini, Rambhere, Mahidar and Pakha, while many
houses and other infrastructure were damaged. Since then the people have
been living in the fear of a similar devastation, while the damages
caused by the landslide is still affecting the people.
The people affected by the landslide
have also not been properly compensated by the government even after 11
years. The then Darjeeling administration DGHC and state government had
provided support for the construction of 40 houses along with cloths,
ration and other basic amenities. However, the houses are in a dismal
condition now, with sinking floors and cracked walls. The landslide had
even washed away the small plots of land, where the villagers used to
grow their vegetable and crops, while the high tension wire which passes
through some of the villages have led to many health complications.
The villages also lack proper
electricity supply, drinking water, sanitation, community hall and roads
to connect with towns. The government had recently provided electricity
connectivity, but due to poverty many villages are unable to enjoy the
facility. The village elders who are above the age of 60 have been
deprived of old age pension. With such problems it is imperative the
area MLA, MP, BDO along with other regional administrative bodies will
have to look into the issue at the earliest and provide support to the
landslide victims.(EOIC)