6 people killed in rain-related incidents in Meghalaya

Syllad | The Rising MeghalayaJune 2, 2020

Altogether six people have died in rain-related incidents across the state as heavy rains continue to wreak havoc in most parts of the state.

“As per official report, a total of six people have died due to incidents related to heavy rainfall from April 1 to June 2,” Minister incharge Revenue & Disaster Management Kyrmen Shylla told reporters on Tuesday.

He said three have died due to lightning strike, the incidents of which took place on April 21 and 29.

The other three include one Bringson Rani who drowned at Ktieh Madan stream at Madanbitaw village under Sohiong block on May 23 and two boys drowned at a check dam at Umtyngar village under Mylliem block in East Khasi Hills district on May 29.

“Compensation of Rs 4 lakh each will be released to next of kin of the victims as per norms,” Shylla said.

The minister further informed that over 756 houses in 194 villages were damaged and 5.27 lakh population have been affected due to heavy rainfall during the past 10 days from May 24 to June 2.

He said during the last 24 hours, 25 houses have been damaged while 18 villages and 50 people have been affected.

“A total of 14 paddy fields and PMGSY roads were also damaged,” Shylla added.

He said 12 villages under Khliehriat & Saipung blocks in East Jaintia Hills were affected due heavy rainfall and landslide while flash flood at Nayapara Rabukong in West Garo Hills and  cyclonic storm at 5 villages under Chokpot block in South Garo Hills.

Asked, the minister said that the department is still waiting for the report from the respective deputy commissioners on the cost of the damaged due to incidents of natural calamity.

“We are also waiting for the report on the number of roads being washed away and other infrastructures,” he said.

The minister also urged affected farmers to report to the block development officers (BDOs) for conducting the necessary assessment. According to him, relief will be provided to all the affected farmers.