Shillong, Oct 8: The VPP, while condoling the deaths due to flood in Garo Hills, called for review of disaster preparedness and expressed concern over the delayed recovery
efforts in certain areas, especially where villages remain cut off due to damaged
infrastructure and poor connectivity.
” While the administration has started to distribute relief, it is clear that much
more needs to be done. The VPP urges the Meghalaya Democratic Alliance (MDA)
government, led by the NPP, to take this opportunity to reflect on the gaps in disaster
response mechanisms, which have left many citizens vulnerable and isolated in their
time of need”, VPP spokesperson Batskhem Myrboh said in a statement on Tuesday.
The continued lack of adequate communication and transport facilities
in some of the worst-affected districts, such as South Garo Hills, highlights the failure
of successive governments to invest in sustainable infrastructure that can withstand
the increasing frequency of extreme weather events.
The VPP called for immediate enhancement of relief efforts to ensure that no affected family is left without support, especially in remote and hard-to-reach areas. Comprehensive infrastructural upgrades in Garo Hills, including better road
connectivity, bridge construction, and flood defense systems to prevent such
tragedies in the future is also the need of the hour, the party said.
The party also wanted a thorough review of disaster preparedness protocols to ensure rapid and effective response during emergencies, with special attention to early warning systems and evacuation measures.
“The VPP stands in solidarity with the people of Garo Hills during this difficult time
and will continue to advocate for their well-being, ensuring that their voices are heard
and their concerns addressed”, the spokesperson added
