Meghalaya CM reviews monsoon preparedness after rain triggers landslides, floods in 32 villages

Shillong, Jul 11 (PTI) Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma on Saturday reviewed the state's monsoon preparedness after heavy rain triggered landslides, flash floods and localised flooding in 32 villages. Virtually chairing a review meeting with deputy commissioners, Sangma assessed the impact of the ongoing spell of monsoon rain, which has affected several districts, particularly in the Garo Hills and parts of the Khasi Hills. The current spell of rain, which began in the first week of July, has damaged roads and infrastructure in several areas, with landslides, landslips, flash floods and localised flooding reported from 32 villages, officials said. With the India Meteorological Department (IMD) forecasting widespread rainfall, including heavy to very heavy spells at isolated places till July 15, the chief minister directed all district administrations to remain on high alert. "He stressed close coordination among the district administrations, the block-level response teams and the line departments concerned so that any incident is attended to quickly and field personnel and machinery are kept ready for immediate clearance and response," an official statement said. Sangma also directed officials to prioritise the restoration of road connectivity disrupted by the rain and reviewed erosion on the approach road to the Mineng Bailey Bridge near Gasuapara in South Garo Hills. Traffic on the bridge has been restricted to light vehicles as a precaution, while an alternative route is being used. The chief minister instructed officials to expedite inspection and temporary restoration work. He further directed that relief and assistance reach affected families without delay, essential supplies and services be maintained, and district administrations keep the situation under constant watch with regular reports to the state government. The government urged people to avoid landslide-prone stretches and flooded streams, follow advisories issued by local authorities, postpone non-essential travel on hill roads during heavy rainfall, and take precautions against lightning during thunderstorms. Restoration and relief operations are continuing across the affected areas, while the situation is being closely monitored, the statement added. PTI JOP ACD