Kolkata: At least 20 people were killed and several others injured as torrential rain caused massive landslides across northern Bengal hill in West Bengal on Sunday, sweeping away homes, road links and leaving hundreds of tourists stranded.

According to reports by NDRF and the district administration, deaths were reported from several locations -- Sarsaly, Jasbirgaon, Mirik Basti, Dhar Gaon (Mechi), Nagrakata and Mirik Lake area.

Stating that the loss of lives is tragic, North Bengal Development Minister Udayan Guha told media persons: "As of now the death toll is 20. It is likely to go up."

According to the NDRF statement, at least 11 people have died in Mirik, the worst-affected area in the landslide, and seven injured have been rescued from the area.

In Darjeeling, seven persons die

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