Shillong(Meghalaya), Oct 7: A devastating wave of landslides and floods has swept through Meghalaya’s Garo Hills region, leaving a trail of heartbreak and destruction in its wake. The death toll has risen to 15, with multiple families affected.
In Sonagre Village, Dimapara, the bodies of Bijoy S Sangma, a dedicated teacher, and his son Wian Chigado Marak were retrieved. This loss will deeply impact the local community.
At Rongjeng Gongdop, the SDRF team, aided by the community, recovered the bodies of Amerin K Marak and her daughter Manase K Marak, victims of a mudslide.
In Atisia Songmong Village, Gasuapara, six out of seven bodies buried alive have been retrieved after relentless efforts since Friday.
Education Minister Rakkam A Sangma, along with MLAs Sengchim N Sangma and Kartush Marak, visited the landslide area at Hatisia Songma to assess the situation and ongoing relief efforts.
“We stand in solidarity with the affected families and assure them of our support during this difficult time,” Minister Rakkam A Sangma said.
Chief Minister Conrad Sangma has announced an ex-gratia payment of ₹5 lakhs to the next of kin of each deceased, free medical treatment for injured persons, immediate relief assistance to affected families and a comprehensive review of disaster preparedness and response measures.
CM Sangma tweeted, “Heartfelt condolences to the families affected by the landslides and floods in Garo Hills. We are working tirelessly to provide aid and relief. Our priority is the safety and well-being of our people.” (@CMO_Meghalaya)
The Meghalaya State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) and local authorities are working tirelessly to provide aid and relief to affected areas.
Our thoughts and prayers are with the families and loved ones of the deceased. May they find strength and resilience in the face of this tragedy.