Shillong, July 11: Chief Minister Conrad Sangma has chaired a review meeting with the Deputy Commissioners over video conference to assess the situation arising from continuous monsoon rain across the state
In the current spell since the first week of July, several incidents have been reported from several districts, mainly in
the Garo Hills and parts of the Khasi Hills, affecting 32 villages. The damage has been largely in the form of
landslides, landslips, flash floods and localised flooding. No loss of life has been reported in the current spell.
With the India Meteorological Department placing the state under orange alert and forecasting widespread rain, with heavy to very heavy spells likely at isolated places, to continue up to around July 15
the chief minister directed the district administrations to remain high alert and not to be complacent. He
stressed close coordination among the district administrations, the block-level response teams and the
departments concerned, so that any incident is attended to quickly and that field personnel and machinery
are kept ready for immediate clearance and response.
The chief minister directed that road connectivity affected by the rain be restored on priority. He reviewed the
erosion on the approach to the Mineng Bailey Bridge near Gasuapara in South Garo Hills, where traffic has
been restricted to light vehicles as a precaution and an alternative route is being used, and directed that
inspection and temporary restoration be completed quickly. He further directed that relief and assistance
reach the affected families without delay, that essential supplies and services be maintained, and that the
districts keep the situation under continuous watch with regular reporting to the state.
People have been urged to exercise caution: to avoid landslide-prone stretches and flooded streams, to
heed local advisories, and to postpone non-essential travel on hill roads during heavy rain. Caution has also
been advised on lightning safety during thunderstorms. Restoration and relief work is continuing, and the
situation continues to be monitored closely. Further updates will be issued as required.
