Shillong (Meghalaya), Oct 6 : Tragedy struck in West Garo Hills, Meghalaya, as the relentless floods claimed the lives of a father and son, whose bodies were recovered by the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) today.
The victims, identified as Lt. Bijoy S Sangma (44) and his 13-year-old son Lt. Wian Chigado R Marak, were residents of Rongkhon Songgital, Tura. Their car, bearing West Bengal registration plates (WB 06 7718, Wagon R), was swept away by the floodwaters at Dalu Sonagre junction.
The SDRF team, stationed in the flood-hit Dalu area since Friday, launched a search operation after retrieving the car yesterday. Today, they located both the bodies.
The flash floods, triggered by heavy rainfall, have ravaged West Garo Hills, causing landslides and loss of life. The district remains prone to natural calamities, especially during the rainy season.
Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma expressed deep condolences to the bereaved family, saying, “My heart goes out to the family and loved ones of the victims. May they find strength during this difficult time.”