Heavy rainfall and series of massive landslides wreak havoc at several places in Meghalaya, Northeast India, sources said on Wednesday.
The landslide caused by torrential rains at Mawlat area in Mawkynrew Block of East Khasi Hills district claimed at least two lives on Monday. The deceased have been identified as one Rohit Kshiar, 14 years and Dilibon Tangsang, 35 years of age.
Some of the worst hit areas included Khohiar, Mawkhong, Rngai, Lyngkyrdem and near Siatbakon. Roads and several houses in these areas were reportedly swept away by the landslide.
According to the Meghalaya government notification order, in view of the situation, plying of vehicles is restricted near Siatbakon Village on Shillong-Dawki road along National Highway-40.
Following the heavy rainfall, at least 25 students missed their board examinations on Tuesday, sources said.
Speaking to reporters, Meghalaya Education Minister Lahkmen Rymbui said that the department is aware of reports that some of the students have missed their exams on Monday because of heavy rainfall which has affected many roads in the state.
“The Education department will seek a report and will do what is necessary so that students will not be at a loss due to rain which plays havoc in the state of Meghalaya,” he said while informing that the department will take a decision on the matter within a day or two.
Teams of the state PWD and the NHIDCL have been put on high alert, as heavy rainfall continued to lash the state.
“We had a meeting with secretary PWD, I have instructed him to issue a circular to all the division executive engineers throughout the state to be alert and also to be ready for any eventuality,” Deputy Chief Minister in charge of PWD Prestone Tynsong said on Tuesday.
Special instruction has been given to NHIDCL to remain available in case of any eventualities in the area, he added.