India, Oct. 5 -- At least 17 people were killed as relentless heavy rainfall unleashed a series of massive landslides across West Bengal's Darjeeling district on Saturday, flattening homes, damaging roads, and leaving several remote hamlets cut off, officials said.

The death toll is expected to rise as varying report of deaths are emerging and more damaged homes are searched. According to news agency PTI, North Bengal development minister Udayan Guha described the situation as "alarming" and put the death toll at 17, citing preliminary reports from local authorities.

Meanwhile, news agency AFP reported at least 20 people have died.

Rescue and relief operations are being carried out by the district administration, police, and disaster r...