Shillong, May 30: As Meghalaya reels under the impact of relentless squally winds and heavy rainfall, Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma on Friday chaired an urgent review meeting with all Deputy Commissioners to assess the scale of damage and coordinate emergency response efforts across the State.

The meeting, held under the aegis of the Revenue and Disaster Management Department, was briefed by Commissioner and Secretary Sanjay Goyal, who presented an overview of district-level preparedness and calamity reports. With adverse weather expected to continue until May 31, the Chief Minister directed all departments to intensify vigilance and relief measures over the next 24 hours.

Lives Lost and Families Affected

Tragically, two lives have already been lost due to weather-related incidents in East Khasi Hills district.
Klosliya Kharkongor, a 45-year-old resident of Lumkyntung village under Laitkroh–Khatarshnong Block, died in a landslide. In a separate incident, 35-year-old Samborlang Tariang of Mawbynna, Pomlakrai drowned amidst the downpour. Both deaths occurred on Friday. Additionally, three people that included 2 minors, sustained injuries in related incidents.

The government has directed the immediate disbursement of Rs. 4 lakh ex-gratia compensation to the next of kin of each deceased.

Widespread Damage Across Districts

Over 1,000 people across 25 villages have been affected as the inclement weather caused flooding, landslides, and widespread infrastructure damage. East Khasi Hills reported the highest impact with 14 villages affected and extensive damage to roads, homes, and public utilities. Fallen trees and landslides were reported at five locations.

In total, 18 houses were damaged across multiple districts including West Garo Hills, South West Garo Hills, East Jaintia Hills, West Jaintia Hills, and Eastern West Khasi Hills.

Key infrastructural damages reported include:

– Seven roads, one school, and two shops in East Khasi Hills.
– One school in West Garo Hills.
– Roads and power lines in South West Garo Hills.
– Six KV lines, two roads, a school, and a government office in East Jaintia Hills.
– Landslides along the Baghmara–Moheskhola road in South Garo Hills.

CM’s Orders for Swift Action

In view of the emerging crisis, Chief Minister Sangma issued the following directives:

– Districts must be divided into zones to streamline disaster response.
– All district administrations are to remain on high alert, particularly in vulnerable areas.
– Immediate relief must be provided to affected families.
– All field officers must remain stationed at their respective headquarters.
– The Meghalaya Energy Corporation Limited (MeECL) has been tasked with restoring electricity on a war footing and deploying additional manpower wherever necessary.
– District administrations must also prevent traffic disruptions and extend support to stranded passengers.

Public Advisory

The State Disaster Management Authority (SDMA) and District Disaster Management Authorities (DDMAs) are actively monitoring the situation and have mobilized emergency services. Citizens are advised to stay informed, take necessary precautions, and remain prepared as the weather is expected to remain severe for the next 24 hours.

As Meghalaya braces for more rain, the state machinery is in full swing to mitigate damage and safeguard lives, while the government remains committed to providing timely assistance to all those impacted.

Also Read: Myntdu River swells, daily life halted in Jaiñtia Hills due to heavy rains

Also Watch

Find latest news from every corner of Northeast India at hubnetwork.in, your online source for breaking news, video coverage.

Also, Follow us on-

Twitter-twitter.com/nemediahub

Youtube channel- www.youtube.com/@NortheastMediaHub2020

Instagram- www.instagram.com/ne_media_hub

Download our app from playstore – Northeast Media Hub