SHILLONG: The Meghalaya state government has directed all Disaster Management departments to remain on high alert following a severe weather warning from the meteorological department.
Forecasts indicate heavy rainfall and thunderstorms across the state, prompting the government to issue strict directives to Sub-Divisional Officers (SDOs) and Deputy Commissioners (DCs) in all districts to monitor the situation closely and take necessary precautionary measures based on local weather conditions.
Revenue and Disaster Management Minister, Lahkmen Rymbui, stated that the government is fully prepared with both manpower and equipment to tackle any unfortunate incidents resulting from the monsoon’s intensity. He noted that advancements in technology now allow for better prediction of natural calamities, and he is currently awaiting detailed reports from various regions regarding the rainfall patterns.
Furthermore, District Magistrates have been authorized to make independent decisions based on the specific circumstances in their respective districts, as weather patterns often vary significantly from one location to another.
In a related move, the office of the Additional Deputy Commissioner and Chief Executive Officer of the District Disaster Management Authority (DDMA) in East Khasi Hills has issued a rigorous warning effective from April 27 to May 1. During this period, the region is expected to face heavy downpours, high-speed winds ranging from 40 to 60 kmph, lightning, and sudden flash floods, particularly in low-lying areas near rivers.
The government has urged citizens to remain vigilant, avoid waterlogged areas or riverbanks, secure belongings that could be carried away by wind, and unplug electronic devices during thunderstorms. Drivers are specifically advised not to navigate through flooded roads and to avoid unnecessary travel. In case of emergencies, the public is encouraged to contact the emergency helpline at 112 for immediate assistance.
Parallel to the weather warnings, Minister Lahkmen Rymbui also expressed his deep dissatisfaction with the ongoing work and safety standards of the Shillong–Dawki road project. While clarifying that he does not oppose the road expansion itself, he voiced serious concerns over the frequent and tragic loss of lives occurring during the construction phase. Despite various government measures aimed at preventing accidents, the Minister described the recurring fatal incidents as deeply distressing and heavy on the heart.
The Minister emphasized that the loss of life is unacceptable, even as the government tries to expedite the project. He called upon all involved departments and the state government to take the matter seriously to ensure such tragedies are not repeated in other development projects across the state. He pointed out that since the commencement of the Shillong–Dawki road work, numerous lives have been lost, necessitating a significant reinforcement of security and safety protocols.
Regarding the enforcement of safety regulations, Rymbui mentioned that while the SDO (Civil) office frequently issues warnings and restrictions, accidents continue to occur. Consequently, the government has ordered the SDO (Civil) to conduct a thorough investigation into these incidents. Currently, the National Highways and Infrastructure Development Corporation Limited (NHIDCL), which is executing the project, has begun clearing and stabilizing hillsides in areas like Mawleih to prevent landslides and falling boulders.
The Minister stressed that seamless coordination between the Deputy Commissioner’s office, the Sub-Divisional administration, and the NHIDCL is vital to overcoming these safety challenges. He concluded by stating that disasters can arise from various factors—including human-made accidents and environmental changes like deforestation—and underscored that proactive safety measures must be a priority in all infrastructure and development activities in the state.
