Shillong, July 11: Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma on Saturday chaired a review meeting with Deputy Commissioners through video conference to assess the impact of continuous monsoon rainfall across Meghalaya and directed district administrations to remain on high alert and ensure timely rescue, relief and restoration measures.
According to the Meghalaya State Disaster Management Authority (MSDMA), 32 villages have been affected in the current spell of monsoon rains since the first week of July. While incidents have been reported mainly from the Garo Hills and parts of the Khasi Hills, no loss of life has been reported so far. The damage has largely been caused by landslides, landslips, flash floods and localised flooding.
With the India Meteorological Department (IMD) placing Meghalaya under an Orange Alert and forecasting widespread rainfall with isolated heavy to very heavy spells until around July 15, the Chief Minister instructed district administrations not to become complacent and to maintain close coordination with block-level response teams and line departments. He directed officials to keep personnel and machinery ready for immediate response to any emergency.
Sangma also stressed that restoration of road connectivity should be treated as a priority. He reviewed the erosion affecting the approach road to the Mineng Bailey Bridge near Gasuapara in South Garo Hills, where traffic has been restricted to light vehicles and diverted through an alternative route as a precaution. He directed officials to complete inspections and temporary restoration work at the earliest.
The Chief Minister further instructed authorities to ensure that relief and assistance reach affected families without delay, maintain the supply of essential services, and closely monitor the evolving weather situation with regular reports to the State Government.
The government has appealed to the public to remain cautious by avoiding landslide-prone areas and flooded streams, following local advisories, and postponing non-essential travel on hilly roads during periods of heavy rainfall. Residents have also been advised to take precautions against lightning during thunderstorms. Restoration and relief operations are continuing across the affected areas, while the situation remains under constant monitoring.
