Shillong, May 30: Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma on Friday convened an emergency meeting with deputy commissioners of the districts to assess the damage and review relief operations in the aftermath of a devastating storm that claimed two lives and damaged homes across 25 villages.
During the high-level review, overseen by the Revenue and Disaster Management Department, Commissioner and Secretary Sanjay Goyal briefed the meeting on district preparedness and ongoing challenges, and Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma directing all departments to intensify vigilance and relief measures over the next 24 hours in the light of forecast warning of continued severe weather through March 31.
Tragic losses and injuries
The storm has claimed two lives on Friday from the East Khasi Hills district.
Klosliya Kharkongor, a 45-year-old resident of Lumkyntung village under Laitkroh–Khatarshnong Block, was killed in a landslide, while in a separate incident, 35-year-old Samborlang Tariang of Mawbynna, Pomlakrai drowned in a river during the heavy downpour. Three others, including two minors, were injured in related incidents.
The government has directed the immediate disbursement of Rs. 4 lakh ex-gratia compensation to the next of kin of each of the 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 directive for immediate action
In view of the emerging crisis, Sangma has issued urgent orders to mitigate the crisis:
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 safety measures
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.
